Meow: June is Adopt-A-Shelter-Cat month
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Shelters across the United States are usually full with cats and kittens looking for their forever home, especially this time of the year when homeless kittens are in abundance.
Here are some things to consider when considering adding a new feline companion to your family:
• Find a cat whose personality compliments yours.
• Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before the pet comes home.
• If you have young children (under the age of 5) in the home, they will need careful supervision when interacting with cats, and a young adult cat may be more suitable than a kitten.
• Can you afford a cat or kitten: Food, litter, annual vet exam and vaccinations, toys, medical care, etc.
• Does your work schedule allow time – especially for a new kitten who will not be so ready to nap all day while you are gone, plus time for grooming, playing, socializing and more?
• Purchase needed supplies before the cat arrives.
• Cat-proof your home.
• Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family – especially other cats.
• Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan.
But if adoption isn’t for you there are other ways you can get involved that can make a big difference:
• Use your social media contacts to spread the word and encourage interest in adoption or volunteering.
• Ask your local shelter or rescue group if they have a donation wish list.
• Sign up to volunteer or maybe foster kittens or puppies.
• Write an article or letter for your local newspaper, church newsletter, school paper or other organization encouraging adoption.
• Have a knack with a camera? Offer to help take great pictures of adoptable animals.
• Share your interest in caring for animals and adoption with children or grandchildren.
If you have other ideas we would love to hear them. Come visit the Mission Valley Animal Shelter Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (406) 883-5312.
