Adopting a Shelter Cat: Questions to Ask for a Confident, Compassionate Match

Health History and Medical Care

Most reputable shelters will have basic health information for their animals, even if they don’t have full medical histories. Ask questions such as:

• Has the cat been spayed or neutered?
• Are vaccinations current?
• Has the cat been tested for FeLV (feline leukemia virus) and FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus)?
• Are there any ongoing medical needs or medications?
• Has the cat recently received a veterinary wellness exam?

Understanding this background helps set expectations for initial and future care through your primary veterinarian.

Personality and Behavior

Every shelter cat has a different story and temperament. Knowing how the cat interacts with people and other animals will help you determine compatibility with your home.

• Is the cat friendly or more reserved?
• How do they respond to children or other pets?
• Are there any behavior concerns the staff has observed, such as hiding, excessive vocalizing, or food guarding?
• Do they enjoy being held or prefer independence?

The more you know about their personality now, the smoother the transition will be.

Daily Routine and Preferences

Consistency can ease stress and speed up adjustment in a new home. Ask:

• What food is the cat eating now, and how often are they fed?
• What type of litter and litter box setup do they use?
• Are they fully litter-trained?
• Do they have grooming needs, especially if they have long hair?

Maintaining their routine for the first few weeks can provide comfort and stability.

Lifestyle Compatibility

A busy home with kids and dogs may overwhelm a cat who prefers quiet. Ask:

• Has the cat lived with other pets or children before?
• Have they been kept indoors, or do they have experience with outdoor access?
• What is their activity level? Are they playful, curious, or more sedentary?

These questions help align your home environment with the cat’s comfort zone.

Adoption Policies and Post-Adoption Support

Each shelter has its own process and policies. Be sure to clarify:

• What does the adoption fee include (vaccinations, microchip, sterilization)?
• Is there a return policy or trial period?
• Does the shelter offer behavioral support or resources after adoption?
• Who can you contact with questions post-adoption?

Knowing what’s included and where to turn if challenges arise can offer peace of mind.

Self-Reflection: Are You Ready?

Before adopting, consider:

• Do you have time for daily pet care and companionship?
• Can you afford routine and unexpected pet expenses?
• Is your home safe, and does it have the resources a cat needs—like scratching posts, quiet spaces, and secure windows?

Taking time to answer these questions ensures you’re prepared for the long-term responsibilities of pet parenting.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Trustworthy shelters should be transparent and open. Watch for red flags such as:

• Missing or unclear medical information
• Reluctance to answer basic questions
• Pressure to make a fast decision
• Cats showing signs of severe illness or stress without explanation

It’s okay to take a step back and ask for more information if something doesn’t feel right.

Why It Matters

According to ASPCA shelter statistics, millions of cats enter U.S. shelters each year. Only about 37% are adopted. Many of those left behind especially senior cats or those without identification, may be euthanized due to limited space or resources.

By asking the right questions, you’re not just adopting a pet. You’re helping save a life and reduce shelter overpopulation. To learn more about the broader impact of adoption, see our article: Cat Adoption: Saving Many Lives.

Need Help After Adoption?

The transition doesn’t end when you bring your cat home. Whether you have questions about behavior, feeding, or adjusting routines, the whiskerDocs Pet Help Line is here 24/7 with access to veterinary telehealth specialists. We provide trusted guidance so you can feel confident supporting your new companion—any time, day or night.