Cats are a long term commitment...
Adoption Process
To avoid disappointment please make sure you understand everything on this page before you visit us with the intention of adopting a cat.
Our aim is to help cats and kittens find the right home with the right owner. Please do not be offended if you are refused a particular cat. We take our rehoming responsibilities very seriously: if we think a cat isn't suitable, we will tell you why.
Visiting Us
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All householders/children/parents must attend!
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Please bring proof of address and ownership or tenancy If you are a tenant. We will need to see a letter or email from your landlord confirming that you can have a cat in your home.
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If you are under twenty please bring proof of age and visit with your householder, if you don't own your own home.
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Home checks AND vet checks may be carried out at random so do not expect to be able to take your chosen cat immediately.
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You may reserve a cat for up to a maximum of 7 days for a non-refundable deposit. Cats must be reserved in person, not by telephone or e-mail.
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When collecting your cat please bring a suitable secure cat carrier with a blanket/towel.
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Please allow plenty of time to complete the process.
Choosing A Cat
Please come with an open mind! Many cats choose their owners, which often results in a very happy rehoming. Remember that different cats have different needs. A young cat needs room to explore, inside and outside. An elderly cat is more likely to be content to stay indoors and sit on your lap.
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You'll be able to meet the cats in person. It's best to choose a cat that interacts with you when you meet them - so this is the crucial moment!
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Some cats find the rehoming process a bit traumatic - don't overlook them just because they don't leap up to greet you. In a normal home they soon come round.
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Male or female? Once they've been neutered there is very little difference ...cats have their own temperament and personality, and this isn't dictated by their sex.
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What colour? It doesn't matter. If you're looking for a 'designer cat' we won't help you.
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We do not home cats as "gifts". They are living creatures, not toys.
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Please approach the cats slowly and quietly. Not all cats like being cuddled before they've got to know you - so proceed with caution.
Kittens
Many people want to adopt a single kitten from a litter. We believe it is not right to separate kittens from their siblings - it's like taking a 2 year old child away from their twin brother or sister. Kittens are extremely cute, but they approach the size of an adult after just a few months. So, if you're sure you only want one cat, it makes much more sense to adopt one that is around 1 year old - not remove a kitten from its family.
When we do rehome kittens they usually go in pairs... if there's an odd numbered litter, the last kitten will be paired with its Mum, or a kitten of similar age from another litter.
We do not home kittens where the house will be unoccupied for large parts of the day!
Donation
You need to donate to adopt a cat, and you can find out more on our donations page. We do not provide refunds, so please think hard before adopting, ask our advice, and choose carefully! Your donation includes vaccinations, neutering (where old enough) and microchipping work for your new pet.
If Your Cat Doesn't Settle
Some cats settle in quickly; with others, it can take a little while. Our cat care page has lots of helpful health and care advice to help ensure a happy adoption. We will take a cat or kitten back if you have given it long enough, and the adoption isn't working (please appreciate though, we may not able to do this immediately). But please - if you really think it's not working out - ask our advice first!