Adopting a cat into your life — especially a rescue — is not only a nice thought but it can truly impact your life. However, there are things you won’t find on the adoption brochure, like messy moments that can become surprisingly magical.

Why should you choose to adopt?

First things first: adopting a cat means saving a life. Cats at shelters have their own stories, like losing their owner or being born outside with no place to live. What matters is that each cat is filled with hope and looking for a loving owner.

On the other hand, buying a cat from a pet store fuels unethical breeding and overpopulation. Adopting is a step in the right direction — one cat at a time.

Most people don’t realize this, and I don’t know why, but you should definitely know this:

1. Every cat has their own unique personality.

Not every cat is standoffish or “self-sufficient” as some may say. There are some that will follow you everywhere like a hawk. There are others who prefer a more hands-off approach. Some can be quite dramatic and boisterous. While others are quite loyal but more on the introverted side.

Do not adopt based on looks alone. The calm and chill tabby sitting at the back will be the perfect match for your energy as opposed to the front one, the Instagram famous Siamese.

2. It could take weeks for your cat to learn to fully trust you.

Cats are naturally cautious creatures. If your new cat decides to hide under the bed for a week, that is perfectly normal. They are not simply rude, they are just reluctant. All they need is time, space, and grace. Trust cannot be established instantly but when it does, it is reliable.

3. Choosing an older cat can possibly be the best decision of your life.

Kittens might be deemed cute, however, they are equally as delicate and wild. Older cats, particularly the explitives seniors, are often much more desirable as they are calmer, more stable, and simply want a lap to relax in along with a safe place to call home.

Not to mention, they won’t be as likely to scale your curtains or knock your glasses off the counter. Though we can’t guarantee anything.

4. Training cats is absolutely possible.

Disregard the misconception of cats being unresponsive. With enough effort, a cat can be taught to come when called, use a designated scratching post, and even walk on a leash. Cats are highly intelligent and motivated by routine and treats, paired with strong powers of observation.

Adopting a Cat? Consider These Questions First:

1. Is there a quiet and secure area for the cat to settle in?
2. Am I comfortable with a flexible approach while we connect?
3. Can I afford veterinary expenses, food, litter, and potential emergencies?
4. Am I prepared for a life-long commitment? Cats can live anywhere between 15–20 years.
5. Is my motivation for adopting purely for companionship as opposed to a “cute” pet?

If the answer is yes, then you’re not just ready — but exactly who a cat is waiting for.

What Life With a Rescue Cat Actually Feels Like

It’s soft, furry paws walking on a blanket first thing in the morning. It’s the delightful amazement of a cat randomly selecting your lap for a nap. It’s knowing the unique personality traits such as drinking only water from the bathtub faucet and the inability to be satisfied with only one or two toys.

It is not always perfect. Some cats come with emotional scars alongside healthcare needs due to their past. But what you gain in return? It’s tangible. It’s a bond that goes far deeper because they understand you chose them — not for being ideal, but because they were theirs.

The Right Cat Will Find You

People comes in looking for a kitten and end up leaving with a gentle, mature cat that appeared in the corner of the room. Too often have we witnessed this. This is not out of coincidence. It’s rather an undeniable connection.

Forget looking for the “perfect” cat. What you should instead be concerned about is finding one who feels right. The cat that needs you might defy your expectation, but they’ll blend into your life in unimaginable ways.

🐱 Myths About Adopting a Cat (That Need to Go Away)

Misconceptions surrounding cat adoption abound — and they really are stopping so many people from meeting their ideal companion. Let’s correct that.

• Myth 1: Shelter Cats Are “Damaged” or Problem Pets Myth 1: Cats from shelters are “damaged” or problem pets.

Truth: The felines that reside in shelters are there because of issues humans have brought on — not their own. People tend to relocate, get allergies, have children, lose jobs, etc… and the poor cat gets caught in the middle. Shelters don’t break cats; they are simply undergoing a transition.

• Myth 2: Bonding with an older cat is impossible.

Truth: Grown cats tend to bond deeper than kittens. They’ve witnessed life, and their choice of you as a companion isn’t arbitrary. Add to that the fact that to-be-adopted cats are usually litter trained, calmer, and matured, meaning less unexpected surprises.

• Myth 3: Getting a kitten is the only way to have a “real” pet experience.

Reality: Kittens are a bundle of chaotic energy. They may be adorable, but still exude chaos. An adult cat may be your best bet if you wish to avoid 3 A.M. zoomies and items being turned into toys. Adult cats turn out to be more relaxed, easier to care for, and more inclined to just spend time with their humans.

• Myth 4: Cats Don’t Need Attention and Are Effortless Pets

Truth: In some cases, cats may be self-sufficient, but they are also capable of feeling deep emotions. They can experience loneliness and boredom, and anxiety too. Some will follow you from room to room whilst other will sleep on your chest. Cats may not require walks, but they sure require time, care, and attention.

• Myth 5: It Is Impossible To Find A Particular Breed At Shelters

Truth: While it may be somewhat true that a majority of shelter cats are mixed breeds, breed specific rescues do exist. Siamese and Maine Coon Persians, and other breeds eventually end up at shelters or at rescues. And honestly, any day personality > pedigree.

• Myth 6: Cats Cannot Be Trained and Socialized

Truth: There’s so much one can do to train a cat. All it takes is a different kind of motivation. For trained individuals, one can teach recall, no biting, sitting or even high-fives. Of course, they are smart, and usually pick things up sooner than most people expect them to.

• Myth 7: Cats with Black Fur are a sign of bad luck

Truth: These are ancient superstitions that are detrimental towards the adoption rates. Cats with black fur are just as affectionate, funny, and beautiful when compared to cats of any other color. In fact, some cultures regard these cats as symbols of good fortune. Don’t let myths stop you from meeting your ideal companion.