Why you should adopt a senior cat
Adopting a senior cat can be one of the most rewarding adoption experiences you can have, and there are a multitude of reasons to consider an older kitty over a kitten or young adult! While we of course want every cat (of any age!) to find their purrfect match, it can sometimes be harder for shelters to find homes for senior kitties. There is a common misconception that older cats won’t have much longer to live, or that you will be taking on unknown health issues which may be a financial burden most aren’t prepared for. While this may be the case with certain cats, not all seniors are ill, and most have many wonderful years ahead of them, with lots of love to give! Here at C.A.R.E., we consider any cat 8 years or older to be a senior, and did you know that if kept indoors and healthy, the average lifespan of a cat can be 14-20 years?! That’s a whole lot of chin scratches, playtime, and purrs.
Here are just a few reasons you should consider giving a senior cat a home to call their own.
1. SENIOR CATS HAVE ESTABLISHED PERSONALITIES
Unlike kittens, whose personalities can take a few years to develop, senior cats have already matured and established their character traits. Barring something traumatic, you usually have a pretty good idea of who you—re getting when you adopt an elderly cat.
Keep in mind it can take a senior cat (just like any animal, young and old) time to adjust to new living arrangements—particularly if they suddenly found themselves in a shelter after living with one family for several years. But with a little time and patience, you’re sure to have your senior’s heart in no time!
2. SENIORS GET PASSED OVER
All too often, senior cats are overlooked at shelters in favor of younger kittens. But elderly cats have just as much love and compassion to offer as a younger cat. Finding homes for shelter seniors can be difficult, so bringing one home is truly an incredible gift!
3. SENIOR CATS ARE ALREADY TRAINED
A huge benefit to adopting an older cat is that they—re probably well-trained when it comes to things like litter box usage and proper play behavior. They likely know they shouldn—t attack or bite your hands or feet during playtime, and that your furniture isn—t a scratching post.
4. SENIOR CATS REQUIRE LESS SUPERVISION
Depending on your schedule, a senior cat may be a better fit for you and your family. Young kittens need a lot of attention and stimulation, and their natural curiosity means they also need a lot of supervision! In contrast, older cats tend to be much more independent and can be left home alone for most of the day.
5. SENIOR CATS’ HEALTH NEEDS ARE KNOWN
Adopting a senior means you’ll know your cat’s full medical report, taking much of the guess work out of their care, and eliminating expensive vaccination costs. C.A.R.E. ensures every senior cat is fully examined prior to adoption, so you’ll know about any and all medical concerns that we may find (if any) before bringing them home.
Sources:
https://www.cattownoakland.org/cat-town-blog/2017/11/26/5-reasons-to-consider-adopting-a-senior-cat
