Adoption Tips: How to Prepare for Bringing Home a New Cat or Kitten

Adopting a cat is an exciting and rewarding decision. When you welcome a rescue cat or kitten into your home, you’re giving them a second chance at a safe and loving life. But adoption is also a long-term commitment. Preparing ahead of time helps ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new feline family member.

1. Make Sure Adoption Fits Your Lifestyle

Before adopting, take an honest look at your daily routine. Cats may be independent, but they still need time, attention, and care. Consider your work schedule, time at home, other pets in the household, space for litter boxes, and financial responsibility for food and veterinary care. Choosing a cat whose energy level and personality fit your lifestyle increases the chance of a successful match.

2. Prepare Your Home Before Adoption Day

A new environment can feel overwhelming to a rescue cat. Set up a quiet, safe area before bringing them home. Essentials include food and water bowls, high-quality cat food, a litter box in a private area, a cozy bed or blanket, a scratching post, and toys for enrichment. Start your cat in one small room and slowly introduce the rest of your home once they feel secure.

3. Understand the Adjustment Period

Many adopted cats need time to decompress. Some may hide at first — this is normal. Let them explore at their own pace. Avoid forcing interaction. With patience and gentle routines, trust will grow naturally.

4. Plan for Veterinary Care

All adopted cats should receive routine veterinary care. This includes wellness exams, vaccinations, spay or neuter surgery, microchip registration, and parasite prevention. Keeping your cat healthy from the start prevents costly issues later.

5. Choose Adoption Over Buying

Adopting from a rescue organization saves lives and reduces shelter overcrowding. Rescue cats are often already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and socialized in foster homes. When you adopt, you’re giving a homeless animal a future — and opening space for another cat in need.

6. Complete an Adoption Application Honestly

Rescue organizations use adoption questionnaires to ensure the best match for every cat. Be honest about your experience, home environment, and expectations. This helps adoption counselors recommend the right cat for your household.

7. Consider Adopting Two Kittens

If you’re adopting a kitten, consider adopting a pair. Kittens learn social skills from each other, burn energy through play, and adjust faster. Bonded pairs often grow into happier, well-adjusted adult cats.

8. Commit for Life

Cats can live 15–20 years or more. Adoption is a lifetime promise to provide love, care, and stability. If challenges arise, rescues like Whisker Foundation are here to offer guidance and support.

If you’re thinking about adding a new cat or kitten to your family, Whisker Foundation would love to help you meet your match. Our cats are fostered in loving homes in the Everett, Washington area and receive medical care, socialization, and love before adoption.

View available cats
Adoption policies and fees
Adoption questionnaire