Rescue cat: a rewarding pet

If you are thinking about getting a cat, a good place to start looking is at a rescue centre.  Most cat rescue organisations are full of lovely cats of all ages, all desperately wanting a proper home.

Why do so many cats find themselves without a home?  There are all sorts of reasons.  Sadly, many have just been “dumped” because the owner didn’t want them any more!  Others have been handed in because the owner’s circumstances have changed – because of a house move, a new baby, or marital breakdown, for example.

So what happens if you request a cat from a rescue centre?  First of all, a member of staff will visit you to make sure your situation is right for a cat.  Don’t be offended at this – they have to consider the cat’s welfare first and foremost.  If you have very little open space or are too near a busy road, they may not feel your home is suitable.  If there is nobody at home for most of the day, this could also be a factor.  The staff member will also have a chat with you to make sure you understand the needs of a cat. 

If your situation is suitable, most rescue centres will let you choose the cat – or cats – that appeal to you.  You will probably be asked for a donation to help with their expenses.  Don’t begrudge this – your cat will almost certainly be neutered and vaccinated before it comes to you.  They may be able to tell you something about the cat’s history – for example if he has been ill-treated – though they won’t always know.

Once you have brought your new cat home, be very careful.  The cat will be puzzled and bewildered at yet another change in his surroundings.  Don’t worry if he hides away for a day or two, and doesn’t eat any food.  Give him time and he’ll come round – cats are incredibly adaptable.  Don’t, whatever you do, let him outside for at least three weeks.  If you do he’ll be completely disoriented and get lost.  When you do let him out, keep an eye on him the first time until you’re sure he knows the way home.

The rescue centre will probably advise you to take out cat insurance.  There may be difficulties in some instances, especially if you are adopting an adult cat.  You may not know the age of the cat or its medical history.

Don’t let this put you off.  There are many providers of cat insurance policies who will be very sympathetic to your rescue cat.  They may require a vet-check to start with, and the premiums may be a bit higher to reflect the fact that pre-existing conditions can’t be excluded.  But this makes it even more important to take out cat insurance.  The poor cat has been through so much stress in his short life.  The last thing he needs is to be handed back because you  can’t afford his medical care!

Adopting a rescue cat can be an incredibly rewarding experience.  You owe it to him to do everything possible, including taking out cat insurance, to make sure he is happy and well cared for.