How to Adopt a Cat From the SPCA

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Be aware that you must be at least 18 years of age to adopt a cat or kitten from the SPCA. There are a few other requirements as well. You must have a valid form of identification showing your current address. Check with your landlord prior to coming to the SPCA to verify that you are allowed to have a cat in your apartment or rental home. You will need to bring this verification with you to the SPCA adoption center.
Step 2:
Consider whether you want to adopt a kitten or a full grown cat in need of a home. A kitten would be a lot of fun and might get into a bit of trouble, while an older cat will be more settled after the initial adjustment period. Try to make this decision before you go to the SPCA to view the cats. The cat that you adopt will be an extension of your family, so try to pick a cat to adopt that fits your lifestyle. Include your children in the decision and let them be a part of the adoption process.
Step 3:
Obtain a preliminary adoption questionnaire at the SPCA. Their staff needs to know a little bit about your ability to adopt a cat, such as if can you provide a good home with proper care. They may have questions concerning whether you have children, anyone with allergies, where your cat will sleep and eat. The SPCA staff wants to match you with an adoptive cat that is a "good fit" for your family.
Step 4:
Take your children to the SPCA with you to be a part of the selection. Watch how the children relate to the various cats. See which one brings out that "love at first sight" emotion in your children.
Step 5:
Prepare your home for the arrival of your newly adopted cat from the SPCA. The vets or care-takers at the SPCA will examine your cat prior to leaving their facility. This would be a good opportunity for you to make sure you have everything you will need for the arrival, such as the litter box, food, sleeping areas and maybe a few toys.
Step 6:
Thank everyone at the SPCA for helping you find the new love of your life. The adoption fee will have included the cost to have your cat spayed or neutered if it has not already been done. Also, they usually send you home with a new cat kit that may include some pet food, pet samples and maybe a DVD on pet care. Follow the directions given to you by the staff for follow up visits or additional shots needed by a vet at the appropriate times and dates.
Step 7:
Plan to spend as much time as possible with your newly adopted cat when you get home to help with the adjustment. This is a major life style change for your newly adopted cat, so be very loving and patient to help ease its nerves. It won't be too long until your adopted cat from the SPCA is a very important loving part of your family.

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