Why adopt an adult cat?
* Many sweet, well-mannered older cats are overlooked by adopters who have eyes only for kittens.
* An adult cat's physical appearance and temperament are fully developed, so what you see is what you get. Do you want a lap cat, an independent cat that is happy being alone when you are not at home, a small or large cat, or one that gets on well with dogs? Often people choose a kitten because they believe they can mould the kitten's personality to be whatever they want. This is a myth. Cats are notoriously independent and resistant to moulding. Some cats resent this attempt to change their individuality and end up avoiding you. Despite your best efforts, this adorable kitten you have fallen in love with may grow up to be an aloof loner, not the lap cat you wanted.
* Caring for a kitten can be like caring for a baby. Kittens need constant attention and supervision. A mature cat more easily fits into a busy lifestyle. Even better, adopt two adult cats that can keep each other company while you are busy.
* An adult cat is often a better choice if you are adding a second cat to your household. People often think their resident cat will adjust better to a kitten than another adult. This may be true in some cases, but many cats will never adjust to an energetic kitten, especially if it is getting all the attention. This kitten may also grow up to be a cat that doesn't tolerate other cats.
* An adult cat's lifetime of experience will equip him to cope well with dogs, children and other cats.
* Adult cats are calmer and less destructive than kittens. While you are out, kittens will climb the curtains, eat the houseplants, unwind the toilet paper, and claw your furniture, whereas adults will spend most of the day sleeping. Grown cats need less supervision than kittens do before you can trust them with free roam of your house. Also, kittens love to play at night, creating havoc while you try to sleep. Adults will probably sleep on your bed all night.
* Adult cats are often a better choice for a household with young children. Kittens need supervision at all times as they are fragile and vulnerable to injury. Also, if they are handled roughly they may bite or scratch without warning. A teenage or adult cat that is accustomed to children is more likely to give warning or leave when she has had enough. Many organisations do not adopt small kittens to households with children under five years of age.
* If you want to adopt just one cat and have no other cats at home, please consider an adult. Kittens need the companionship and socialisation provided by another cat in the home. We have many cats that love people but are happiest being the only cat in the house. These cats need you.
* Mature cats have lots of love to offer. Many people think they won't live very long, but nowadays cat can live to 20 years, especially an indoor cat. Senior cats make calm, loyal companions, have many good years left, and deserve a comfortable place to spend their golden years.
* Most importantly, you are saving a life. Kittens are always in demand and can find homes. Many of our adult cats are last year's mommies whose kittens have been homed and they have been left behind. Some have been abandoned by their owners, as they are no longer cute kittens. Others are unfortunate enough to have been born the wrong colour or breed, or not to be outgoing enough, and have spent their entire lives with us. They really deserve a chance to show their true colours.
