Each year, approximately 3.4 million cats are placed into animal shelters nationwide. Of them, 37% are adopted, 41% are euthanized, and less than 5% of stray cats are returned to their owners. Before you adopt, it’s important to consider your responsibilities and know where to get a kitten.
Because bringing a kitten into your home is a huge obligation, there are several questions to consider before you make the leap:
Between 7% and 20% of dogs and cats are returned to shelters after being adopted within the first 6 months of adoption every year. Finding the right match for you and your family will reduce these numbers and improve the bond you share with your new cat. If you’re not sure what kind of cat is right for you, ask for some advice. Research shows that owners who seek advice and support from family, friends, or a vet after adoption are 3 times more likely to keep their pets.
Animal shelters, rescue organizations, and humane societies are filled with loving, healthy cats and kittens who are longing to find a good home. Research shelters in your town, including Hill’s partner shelters across the United States to help you find a kitten that is right for you. Your vet can also refer you to local rescue groups. Be prepared to provide a home inspection request, as many rescues want to make sure their kittens are going to good homes. Hill’s Facebook page provides a shelter directory tool and can point you to adoption events in your area. If you want a purebred kitten, ask your vet to recommend a local breeder.
Also, be sure to check out our kitten supply list article to prepare yourself for your new furry little friend. Whichever kitten you do decide to bring home, remember to love and care for her like one of the members of the family.
One of our staff authors prepared this article for you
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Precisely balanced nutrition to help avoid the formation of hairballs with the delicious taste of savory minced ocean fish
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
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Delicious taste of gourmet minced beef in precisely balanced nutrition. Provides a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
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Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
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Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of gourmet savory beef to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
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Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
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Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
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