Top Reasons to Adopt an Older Cat

July 18, 2016

If you have been considering adopting a cat from a rescue organization or animal shelter, you may be thinking a kitten is the best choice. Of course, these little bundles of fur are adorable and fun, but did you know many adult and especially senior cats don’t make it out of the shelter? This is a sad reality, as these animals still have a lot of love and life to give. Let’s explore the top reasons to adopt an adult or senior feline.

You Know What You’re Getting

With an adult or senior cat you know what you are getting up front. These cats have most likely already developed their personalities, so you can better judge if it will fit into your lifestyle and home. Kittens are still growing and developing so even though you may want a cuddle-muffin, you could end up with a wild-cat that only wants to run around the house.

Older Cats Are Better For Children

Most older cats are more tolerant around children, whereas kittens can be quick to bite or scratch if your child is getting a bit too rough. If you have younger children, it’s always a good idea to show them the proper way of handling Fluffy to avoid any incident with your furry friend.

Older Cats Are Great For Older Folks

Just because a person is getting on in years doesn’t mean they should be denied the privilege of pet parenting a cat. Older cats are already trained and tend to just want a warm lap to lounge on or a cozy bed to nap away the afternoon. Seniors still have plenty of love to share with the right cat and often times will benefit from the companionship a cat can provide.

Older Cats Tend to Be More Appreciative

When a cat has been at a shelter for a long time, it tends to become withdrawn and even sad. However, once you bring it home, he or she wants attention especially those that have had a rough go in life. Studies have time-and-time again proved that these types of cats do tend to be more affectionate as a way to show their appreciation to their new pet parents.

Older Cats Are Already Spayed or Neutered

We all know it’s important to have our pets spayed or neutered. This not only cuts down on the over population of stray cats and kittens, but an altered feline tends to have less chance of getting ovarian or testicular cancers. Older felines are usually fixed as soon as they enter the shelter system, to help avoid any accidental litters.

Save an Older Cat

Sadly many older cats are put down simply due to their age. This is unfair. Older cats still have a lot of love to give and life to live. Be a hero to a mature cat by adopting one today. He or she will be forever thankful for the second (or even third) chance at a good life.