All too often cats get a bad rap – from people who don’t know them. Cat personalities are as diverse as people’s but it’s not true that they’re all aloof or completely untrainable. Years ago, when I lived in a relatively safe rural area I used to let my cats out during the day but brought them in at night. I would simply go to the door and whistle (yep, just like for a dog) and they would all come running. Then not so long ago my husband and I had an old manx that we rescued. He was the biggest lover ever; would hang round your neck all day and purr if you let him. He was also the toughest and most protective cat I’ve ever known. He even tried to attack a neighbor’s horse when the neighbor came to show off his new filly. Point is, there are lots of great cats out there and when you consider that maybe as many as two million a year are euthanized, well, adoption seems like an excellent option. You can help save a life.

There are other good reasons to look for a pet in a shelter.

Your cat or kitten will already have a clean bill of health from a veterinarian and will have most, if not all, of its vaccinations, and at a much lower cost than the regular vet’s office. A shelter’s non-profit status and use of volunteers enable it to keep prices well down.

Adult cats will already be spayed or neutered. If you adopt a kitten, almost certainly your fee will include a charge for spaying or neutering when kitty is old enough. Again, the cost will be relatively low and the really good news is that your new family member won’t be adding to the local kitten population. And that’s not the only benefit of spaying and neutering. Spaying a female cat reduces her risk of certain cancers and prevents many health issues in the long run. Neutered males tend to be calmer, and roam and fight less.

Cats are absolutely wonderful pets. They are loyal, loving, playful and beautiful. Bear in mind, however, even the friendliest, most loving and affectionate cat will have a period of adjustment when first brought home. It’s crucial that your feline be allowed to roam and explore her new home and check things out. If kitty runs under the bed, let her stay there. When she feels comfortable and safe, she’ll come out.

Don’t chase, hit or yell; you’ll only cause more anxiety and a frightened cat may strike out with teeth and claws. (Think of it from your cat’s perspective. You’re in prison. You get dragged from your cell and put in a box. You’re driven away who knows where. Then you’re released into a large and completely unknown building with completely strange and unknown mortals in it. One of those mortals starts to chase you round the building. You’re backed into a corner with a giant hand reaching out for you. Wouldn’t you bite it?).  So be patient.  If you know what signs to look for, it’s easy to prevent scratching and biting. Tail twitching, dilated pupils, flat ears, and growling or hissing are all signs that you should back off.

Do use a gentle voice, tasty treats and catnip toys to coax your cat to you and to begin building a solid, trusting relationship. It’s okay to discourage unwanted or aggressive behaviors, but don’t do this through physical punishment. A firm “No” works wonders. With cats, tone is much more important than volume. They can read your tone of voice and will quickly pick up on your signals.

A cat can bring much joy and love into your life. So brighten your home and your life, and save a life.

Adopt a cat. Search Petfinder now to find your perfect match.