The Way of Cats

Sometimes, a cat needs a new home. It could be a stray who is not working out, an unavoidable move, or a tragedy in the family. However it happens, the first thing the cat will need is a resume.

Don’t put off this decision, no matter how difficult it may be to come to it. Because the second thing the cat will need is time. If you feel badly about giving up the cat, imagine how badly you will feel if circumstances force you into placing the cat into less than good conditions.

Start with at least one picture showing the cat at their best. It should capture the best qualities of the cat; playfulness, affection, good humor, and intelligence.

more cat pictures

Do a little writeup putting the best spin on why you and this cat must part ways. “Too playful for our older cat,” “stray we can’t keep,” or “medical problems in family, can’t pay proper attention” will show a perfectly understandable reason for rehoming that does not reflect badly on the cat. Highlight their good qualities, then close with the practicalities everyone would want to know. For instance, “uses litterbox, neutered, up to date on shots,” will let people how much attention the cat will require to fit into their household.

Once you have a good resume, get the word out. Cable access channels will often run ads for free. Put up the posters in places you tend to be, so if someone is interested, such as in a coffee shop, they will feel connected by shared spaces and can approach you, even if it’s only by phone. Branch out into places where you feel people who could connect with this cat would hang out; if he’s good with kids, post at kid friendly places. If the cat has a disability, don’t despair! People with similar challenges will feel a connection there.

Does a local nursing home or mentally challenged support home need a companion cat? More and more places are open to the benefits. Bring his posters to the local shelter; they often maintain referral books for people who can’t find the right cat among the current offerings and need to look further. Ask your vet to put up a poster. They often know when someone is looking for a cat.

Don’t be too shy to talk about the situation, and send out emails among your network with a request to pass it on. Put the cat on Petfinder with the help of your local shelter, and reach an even wider area.

The more you do to get the word out, the greater the chances of connecting with the right person for the cat. The important thing is to not give up. It is usually a great cat in a bad situation.

Present them that way.

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