Adopting a cat can be a minefield or it can be a very rewarding experience for both the cat and the owner. Cats are placed in shelters for a huge amount of reasons. Sometimes the reason is innocuous the owner has died or they are moving and cannot take the cat with them. Other times the cat does not fit in with a life>Before you consider bringing in an animal from a shelter into your home it can be important to ask what sort of evaluation of the animal the shelter is providing. It is helpful if you have an evaluation of the cat’s prior behaviour, as well as a screening for diseases such as feline leukaemia virus. Sometimes the shelter can only offer an assessment of the animal’s behaviour with them because they have no other information.
It can be a very rewarding experience saving a cat from the threat of being put down, but it is not a decision to take lightly. It is important that the cat meet as many family members as possible before the adoption and that you have the opportunity to evaluate the cat’s behaviour away from other animals as well As with them. Also, be aware that the behaviour the animal is exhibiting is not normal they may be missing a home, or be frightened. Not all animals in shelter are placed there because they have behavioural problems.
Certainly if you are buying the animal from a shelter because it is the cheaper option you should also consider that the real cost of keeping any pet is high, it is not just food, but toys, medical care, boarding fees and many other costs. There are so many animals that are without homes it can be an option to be considered if you want a new cat or even kitten.