November is ‘Adopt a Senior Pet Month’ to highlight the low-adoption rates for senior cats. When choosing a new cat to adopt, many people overlook older cats in favour of cute kittens, and it is often assumed an older cat comes with baggage, but that is far from the truth, in most cases, the senior cat is looking for a home through no fault of their own.
We take a look at the many reasons benefits of adopting a senior cat.
Nine reasons to adopt a senior cat
1. What you see is what you get
While there isn’t as much size variation in cats as there is in dogs, adopting a senior cat means you know how big he is, there is no more growing to do and there are no surprises when the tiny kitten grows into an 8 kg adult.
An older cat has already developed its character, so you know what you are getting, be it a friendly and outgoing personality or a more quiet and calm cat.
2. You can see their personality
It is not always easy to determine the personality of a kitten, but the senior cat’s personality is already developed, which can make it easier to find the perfect fit for your family. Do you want an independent cat or one who likes to be with you all the time?
3. You avoid the teething phase
Just like humans, kittens have baby and adult teeth, during the teething process, kittens often chew on anything and everything which won’t happen with a senior cat.
4. Senior cats are calmer
They have outgrown the kitten phase of nighttime crazies, chewing your handbag and eating the plants and are generally calmer. Senior cats are much more content to hang in the sun and watch the world go by.
5. An older cat can be a better option for young families
Sometimes small children can be a little rough with young kittens, an older cat is generally more robust and is a better option for young children.
6. Older cats need love too
Old cats just want a good home with a warm lap and lots of love and are every bit as deserving as their younger counterparts.
7. All the work has been done for you
Older cats have already been desexed and litter trained, which means you don’t have to.
8. They often have a sad story to tell
There are many reasons why older cats may end up at a shelter
- A new baby in the family
- Their owner has moved into a retirement home
- Their owner has passed away
9. You may be their only chance
A kitten will almost always find a home; many seniors don’t. So why not give them a chance at a loving new home? They will reward you with many years of cuddles and love. I have adopted several adult cats and have not once regretted doing so.
Where to adopt a senior cat
Almost all animal shelters have senior cats who desperately need a loving home. If you are looking for a purebred cat, some breeders are often looking for a new home for a former breeding cat, speak to your local cat association.
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