Kittens: Kittens are social creatures and enjoy the company of other friendly cats and kittens. When kittens are adopted in pairs they teach each other limits for rough play, help each other burn off all of their kitten energy, and keep each other entertained when the humans aren’t around. We will usually try to send our kittens to homes where they will have another young, playful cat or kitten to play with.
Cats: As cats get older their personalities emerge more clearly. It is usually clear if a cat likes to be held or not, sleep on laps, have its tummy rubbed, etc. It’s also clear how strongly they attach to humans and how well they get along with other cats. When you adopt a cat rather than a kitten you’ll have a pretty good idea of what it’s going to be like, although as they relax into their safe and loving home they will often become more loving, more playful, and more confident. Adopting a rescue cat gives them a second chance at a lifetime of love and stability.
Seniors: Like people, senior cats can be set in their ways and they may start to have medical issues. Adopters who open their hearts and homes to seniors are special indeed. They know they won’t be molding the cat’s behavior but will be inviting another fully-formed personality into their home.
Regardless of the age, all cats and kittens deserve regular healthcare and exams, a safe home with respectful humans, and a family that will consider what the cat needs and make sure its health and well-being are looked after for the entirety of its life. Responsible cat owners will research what they need to do if they’re going to introduce a dog, keep house plants, travel frequently, etc. They will embrace the idea of an indoor-only cat, providing plenty of stimulation and enrichment and recognizing that their cat is a family member and not an expendable commodity to be replaced as needed.