Things To Consider — Madison Cat Project

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Things to consider before adopting

Kitten Vaccines

If you are interested in a kitten (under 6 months of age), depending on their age,  many of them have only received their first FVRCP (distemper) vaccination and will  need booster shots every few weeks until they're 5 months old. If you adopt a kitten  younger than 3 months old, they will also need a rabies vaccination once they're  between 3-4 months old. You should notify your vet after bringing them home to schedule their next exam and future vaccine or schedule an appointment at our  affordable wellness clinic: Wellness Services — Madison Cat Project 

Personality and Behavior

Be sure to consider what type of personality and age range would be best for you, your current pets, and family members. Please know that some cats retain "kitten-level" energy until around age 3 years of age. This means between naps they're active at all times of day and night. Some folks find it difficult to adopt a single kitten if they don't have the time to play with that kitten as much as it wants to be played with. Older cats at home may also not have the energy or patience to live with a kitten, but it really depends on their individual personality, and you know them best!

Though we completely understand it is not possible for everyone, it can be helpful to adopt young cats in pairs! They can keep each other company if the house is empty during the day, and they're on the same sleep schedule and will keep each other busy. If you're open to the possibility of getting 2 kittens and/or young adults, here's a short video explaining why this can help:  

https://youtu.be/9b_2ZulyEgU?si=p7gFVKXrRJ_W6pQ1 

If you are looking for just one cat for your home, we typically have quite a few cats who would feel more comfortable being the only cat in the home! 

Acclimation Process

You’ll want to make sure your home is safe and secure before bringing in your new furry friend! Store all cleaning chemicals, string, yarn, hair ties, and small/fragile objects in a secure place away from the cat's reach. Make sure that your house plants are not toxic to cats. Please look up if the plant is toxic if you are not sure.

If you have other pets in the home, plan to do a very slow and gradual introduction for the best chance of them becoming friends, or at least polite roommates. We will have more information on this process in your adoption packet!

Here is some info about how to make your new cat feel comfortable and what to  expect in the first month: https://www.petfinder.com/cats/bringing-a-cat home/tips-for-first-30-days-cat/ 

Video about introducing cats: http://youtu.be/gZrwcoiy_gY

Information on cat-to-dog intros: 

http://catsinternational.org/may-i-introduce-fido/ 

https://resources.bestfriends.org/article/how-introduce-dog-cat 

Here are some FAQ about adopting a new cat and general cat care:  

https://icatcare.org/advice/?per_page=12

Thank you!