Is it Better to Adopt or Buy a Cat?

This article answers the question, “Is it better to adopt or buy a cat?” The short answer is, it’s much better to adopt. Here’s why…

Adopting a cat from a shelter rather than buying from a breeder benefits both you and your cat. Adopting is also better for society and the environment.

Let’s discover why adoption is an ethical choice and how it benefits you and your new cat.

Reduce Overpopulation and Save a Life

Every year, millions of cats end up in shelters, and not all of them find homes. Adopting helps reduce the demand for breeding, which, in turn, reduces the number of homeless and abandoned cats.

Shelters are often overcrowded. As a result, many cats face euthanasia due to a lack of space and resources. When you adopt, you’re giving a home to a cat that might otherwise be at risk of being put down.

Health and Socialization

The best shelters will neuter, give essential vaccinations, and microchip your new cat before you take it home. This means you’re starting off with a healthier pet, and it saves you money on initial veterinary expenses.

Many shelter cats have lived with people or other animals before. This socialization means they’re accustomed to human interaction, and this makes the transition to your home easier for both of you.

Older Cats Need Homes Too

Kittens are adorable, but senior cats can make fantastic companions as well. In fact, some people are more suited to the calmer personality of an older cat.

And senior cats, especially those adopted from a shelter, probably require little or no training. CatInfo.net has an article designed to help you determine whether you’re more suited to an older cat.

The Ethical Dimension

Adopting a cat from a shelter supports the vital work of rescuing and caring for animals in need. The modest adoption fee is used to support their ongoing animal welfare effort.

Meanwhile, cat breeders sometimes use unhealthy practices, such as inbreeding, to produce specific traits. Adopting a cat from a shelter promotes the ethical treatment of animals.

Gain Insights into a Cat’s Personality

Like humans, each cat has its own unique personality. A person who buys a kitten from a breeder has no idea what they’re bringing into their home.

In a shelter environment, staff and volunteers get to know the cats, their personalities, and their behaviors. They will help match you with a cat that suits your lifestyle and preferences. The best shelters go out of their way to ensure you and your cat are well-suited.

Responsible Pet Ownership

Shelters often provide valuable resources and education on responsible pet ownership, including information about spaying/neutering, proper care, and training.

Your local shelter will be able to suggest a vet that cares more for the welfare of animals than the size of its owner’s wallet. Good shelters will even visit your home and make recommendations that improve your new cat’s life, safety, and well-being.

Adoption is Better

Regardless of their background, shelter cats can form strong bonds with their new owners and provide just as much love and companionship as a cat from a breeder.

Adopting a cat from a shelter gives a deserving animal a loving home and contributes to the broader effort to reduce pet overpopulation and promote responsible pet ownership. It’s a compassionate choice that benefits everyone involved.