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10 Reasons to Adopt an Adult Cat

So - you’ve decided you want to add a cat to your family.  You’ve probably given some thought to what you want it to look like or whether you want a male or a female.  But have you considered why an adult cat may be the cat for you? Here are some things you may want to think about:

  1. What you see is what you get.  Adult cats already know who they are. Kittens are really cute but you never know what the future may hold, how large they may get, what their personality will be like etc.  They all grow up one day.
  2. Adult cats aren't as "chewsy."  Kittens may chew things, lots of things.  Whether teething or just exploring bits of the world around them, kittens chew on shoes, the corners of books, ear lobes and fingers, carpet tassels, electrical cords, drapery strings, plants, and much, much more.  Most adult cats don't chew inappropriately at all.
  3. If you already have an older cat in your home and are looking for a companion kitty, another adult cat may be the best choice. Kittens can be too playful and may upset your cat instead of providing companionship.  A kitten may cause your resident cat to be more annoyed than amused.
  4. After a long day at the office, you may just want to come home and curl up with your furry friend--but most kittens prefer an action packed evening--lots of touseling, frolicking, and plenty of running and jumping. An adult cat will greet you at the door and be more than happy to curl up and watch your favorite shows on TV.  They've already learned about the unconditional love thing.
  5. Adult cats may sleep at the foot of your bed, under the bed or in a cozy spot somewhere else in the house, while a kitten will most likely run around all night, doing anything possible to wake you up for more games.  Adult cats are generally happy to sleep when you do and don't try to attack your toes through the blankets in the middle of the night.
  6. Adult cats won't be climbing up your leg or your curtains, they won't be swinging from your chandeliers, knocking down knick knacks or just running full speed ahead for no good reason.
  7. Adult cats are usually a better choice for families with small children. Kittens often play rough and are constantly underfoot.   Generally speaking, adult cats are more mellow, and often more patient with young children.  The experience should be a good one for both the cat and the child. Ask to meet the shelter's best "kid cats.
  8. Adult cats require less attention and supervision.  They're quiet companions. They have well-developed manners, use the litter box and the scratching post without constant reminders.
  9. Many adult cats end up in shelters due to no fault of their own. Separated from their loved ones, surrounded by other cats, confined, confused, and sometimes frightened, many are emotionally devastated by their misfortune.  Sadly, most people gravitate toward the cute, bouncy, big-eyed kittens. Older cats sit by and watch, as one loving family after another passes them over for a cute kitten.   Adopting an adult cat is a way to say to a deserving animal "I believe in you.
  10. Kittens will always be popular, and most have no trouble attracting admirers. But for the abandoned, forgotten, and heartbroken adult cats, you just might be their last chance to have the love and warmth of a home where they can live out their years in comfort.  When properly cared for, cats often live well into their late teens, and sometimes into their early twenties.  Typically, they will remain active and even playful throughout most of their lives.  Some may need a little extra patience while adjusting to a new home, but once they feel safe and secure again, they'll offer years of faithful companionship and unconditional love.