June is Adopt a Cat Month

(ANNAPOLIS, Maryland) June 1, 2012—June is Adopt a Cat Month and the CATalyst Council, a national initiative comprised of animal health and welfare organizations working on behalf of cats, is partnering with the American Humane Association to encourage Americans to visit their local shelters during June and adopt a cat. 

“Having a dedicated month to encourage the adoption of cats is a really great tool to help remind people that their shelter and local rescues have lots of friendly, loving cats from which to choose,” says Dr. Jane Brunt, executive director of the Catalyst Council. “From cute and active kittens to mellow and mature seniors, there are all different kinds of cats at your local shelter. The great thing about going to a shelter or a rescue group is that the staff has likely become acquainted with the cats staying there and can guide you to one whose personality will fit in with your family.”

Ensuring that the cat’s personality meshes well with your own is an important step in adopting a cat. Other things potential adopters should consider prior to adopting a cat include:             

1.       Knowing which veterinarian you will take your cat to after it’s adopted. Potential owners should schedule a visit with their chosen veterinarian within a few days of adoption so that the veterinary team can get to know the cat as early as possible. During this visit, your veterinarian will recommend the best food, preventive medications, and other tips to help your cat remain healthy. In addition, this early trip can also help acclimate your cat to the process of visiting the veterinarian and prevent future struggles and headaches when trying to visit the veterinarian in the future.

2.       The costs associated with owning a cat. Ensure that your budget has room for owning a cat. This goes beyond food and litter and includes toys and other environmental enrichment tools as well as veterinary visits for your new feline friend. Many people choose pet health insurance to help in case an illness or other problem arises.

3.       Knowing everyone in your family is ready for a cat. Talk to your family to ensure they are all excited to bring home a furry family member, and that they’re ready to help care for it.

“Cats make wonderful companions and we want to see the adoption rate go up in June,” says Dr. Brunt. “There are so many wonderful cats that need lifetime homes and deserve to get adopted and be a part of a family.”

For more information on Adopt A Cat Month, visit http://www.americanhumane.org/animals/programs/special-initiatives/adopt-a-cat-month.