It’s June, and it’s National Adopt a Cat Month! The start of summer marks kitten season, a time when many little kitties end up homeless because their owners can’t find homes for them. Throughout the month of June, National Adopt a Cat organizers work diligently, promoting cat adoptions across the country. And why wouldn’t they? Cats can be loving companions that are easy to keep. Read on to find out more about this campaign and things to consider if you’re thinking about adopting a cat.

History of National Adopt a Cat Month

In 1974, the American Humane Association first created National Adopt a Cat Month (also known as Adopt a Shelter Cat Month) in an effort to get people to adopt cats from shelters instead of buying them in stores. June was selected as a prime month for the adoption drive because of the high feline birth rates that occur in this month, not to mention a cat can have up to seven kittens per litter. So it’s no surprise that so many kittens end up in animal shelters. The American Humane Association has been around for over 100 years, and they were the first organization to rescue as many as 68,000 injured horses in Europe during the wartime years. They also played a prominent role in rescuing animals affected by Hurricane Sandy, 9/11, and Hurricane Dorian. Through the years, this organization continues to be the voice for these helpless creatures while working to strengthen the bond between humans and animals.

Things to Keep in Mind When Adopting a Cat

Shelter cats and kittens come in all sizes, coats, and personalities, so it’s highly likely that you’ll find one that’s right for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind when adopting a cat:

• Your lifestyle can help you determine whether a kitten or a cat will best match your availability and energy level
• Spend a little time with the cat to get a feel for her true personality
• Make sure the cat you’re considering will be a good fit for the family as a whole
• Prepare a space in your home where your new feline companion can decompress and adjust to the new environment
• Be sure to have all the necessary accouterments (cat food, litter box, cat toys, etc.) in place for when Kitty arrives home

If you have more questions about National Adopt a Cat Month or wish to schedule a wellness exam for your new cat, don’t hesitate to call us today.