Adopting A Senior Cat

Growing up on a farm in rural Ontario, we always had at least one cat in our house. Often times our cats were adopted from the SPCA. Occasionally we would get kittens from fellow farmers who’s barn cats had had a litter. Or we took in cats who friends were no longer able to keep. It was important to us that our cats had a safe place to call home.

All our cats were given an important job: helping to keep the mouse at bay in our 100+ year old farm house. They also became an integral part of our family. I remember the cats being there to cuddle with and comfort us when we were sick as children. One of our cats, Tigger, was notorious for sleeping on our chests when we had a cold or flu. Her sister, Blackjack (pictured above) was my cat. She slept with me every night, often on top of my head like a hat – which wasn’t so bad on cold winter nights!

We had an assortment of other animals while I was growing up, but our cats still hold a special place in my heart. To me, the gentle purr of a cat who is curled up beside me is one of the most relaxing sounds.

Thinking about adopting a cat? Read this first.

There are many things that get better with age, and a feline friend is one of them! If you’re thinking about adopting a kitten or know someone who is, ask that they consider a senior cat instead. Sure, kittens are cute, but adult cats have a great deal going for them. Read and share this list of why adopting a senior cat might be right for you!

• Senior cats are some of the hardest to find homes for – so when you adopt a senior cat you’re literally saving a life! This is a great life lesson to instill in your little ones.
• A senior cat’s personality has already developed, so you’ll know right away from your first encounter if he or she is a good fit for your family.
• A senior cat won’t grow any larger, so you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for. Plus, you won’t have to upgrade to a larger cat house or litter box as they continue to grow.
• A senior cat may be house-trained with basic etiquette and not attack feet, bite hands or use the couch or carpet as a scratching post.
• Senior cats are often already litter trained and are less likely to “forget” where the box is. To help keep cats happy about their litter box, no matter what their age, use a quality cat litter like Arm & Hammer Slide. It traps odours for 7 days, and is dust-free with a soft texture that’s easy on paws. What’s best is the patented EZ Clean technology means the used litter slides right out! No more scrubbing or scraping the bottom of the box!
• Senior cats are often content to just relax in your company, unlike younger cats, who may get into mischief because they’re bored.

Did you Know?

With Friday, the 13th approaching, it’s important to remember that senior cats aren’t the only ones that tend to be forgotten – black cats are too. The superstitions that surround black cats have a real impact on them finding a forever home. Remember, the idea that black cats bring bad luck is nothing but a myth so don’t let that stand in your way of welcoming a deserving cat into your family.

Have you adopted a senior or black cat? I’d love to hear about your experience.

To adopt a senior or black cat or learn more about cat adoption, visit your local SPCA or go online.

As part of our 2017 Brand Ambassador partnership with Church & Dwight, we receive monetary compensation, as well as products to review and giveaway. The views and opinions expressed are our own.