June is Adopt-A-Cat Month!

Spring … season of tulips, lilies, daffodils – and cat adoptions!

From the American Humane Association: http://www.americanhumane.org/animals/programs/special-initiatives/adopt-a-cat-month/

Each spring during “kitten season,” thousands of newborn kittens join the millions of cats already in shelters across the country. That means your local shelter has tons of cute, cuddly newborns, in addition to all the mellow, older cats and everything in between. And the shelter staff are ready to help you adopt your very first cat — or to bring home a friend for another beloved cat!

In 2010, Anchorage Animal Care and Control Center had over 3,000 cats enter our facility.  In warmer weather, animals are allowed outside more or can get out accidentally through open doors and windows.  We see all of our animal numbers go up in the summer, but feel the impact of the cats much more so, as only around 10% of lost cats are claimed by their owners, compared to around 60% of lost dogs.  Please remember to have a microchip and visual ID on your cat at all time, come in to look for them immediately if they go missing, and think about adopting a shelter cat if you have room in your home!

“TOP TEN” CHECKLIST FOR ADOPTING A CAT

1. If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two.
2. Find a cat whose personality meches with yours.
3. Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption.
4. Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before it comes home.
5. Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat.
6. Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives.
7. Cat-proof your home.
8. Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family.
9. Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan.
10. If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process.

A great little video from the Animal Humane Society:

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