🏡 6 Nearby Places to Take Unwanted Kittens

Is your home being overwhelmed by a flurry of feline furballs? Perhaps a stray cat chose your backyard to rear her litter, or your beloved pet gave birth unexpectedly. Regardless of how these kittens ended up in your care, it’s important to ensure they find safe and loving homes. In this article, we’ll highlight some trustworthy places to take unwanted kittens near you.

1. Local Animal Shelters: Safe Spaces for Furry Friends

Animal shelters are usually the first port of call when considering where to take kittens. They are well-equipped to handle such situations, providing medical care, food, shelter, and eventually, new homes. Some well-known shelters include the Humane Society, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), and local government-run shelters. Always opt for a no-kill shelter if possible.

2. Cat Rescues: The Feline Sanctuaries

Cat rescue organizations focus specifically on aiding homeless and abused cats. They function similarly to animal shelters but often have more specialized knowledge about cat care. These include groups such as Alley Cat Allies and Cat Protection Society. Remember, before handing over the kittens, ask about the organization’s policies and procedures to ensure they align with your expectations.

3. Foster Homes: A Temporary Loving Home

Foster homes offer temporary care for kittens until they can be placed in a permanent home. They offer the benefit of a home environment, which can be less stressful for young kittens. Local animal shelters and rescues often have networks of foster homes, so reaching out to these organizations can help connect you with available foster carers.

4. Pet Adoption Centers at Retail Stores

Many retail pet stores, such as PetSmart and Petco, partner with local animal rescue groups to host adoption events. These stores often have space dedicated to housing adoptable cats and can be a good option for kittens needing homes.

5. Veterinary Clinics: The Health Care Providers

While not their primary role, some veterinary clinics may accept unwanted kittens, particularly if they’re sick or injured. They can provide necessary medical care and potentially connect you with local rescue groups or individuals interested in adopting.

6. Online Platforms: The Digital Solution

Online platforms such as Craigslist, Facebook groups, and dedicated pet rehoming sites like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet can also be useful. Be cautious, however, to vet potential adopters thoroughly to ensure they can provide a suitable home.

Note: While this article provides general advice, it’s important to check the specific policies and procedures of the organizations in your local area. It’s also crucial to remember that as the person currently caring for the kittens, you play an important role in ensuring their safe transition to a new home. Always prioritize their well-being, and if you’re unsure, seek advice from a professional, such as a local vet or animal welfare organization.

FAQs

Q1. What should I do before taking kittens to a shelter or rescue?

Before taking kittens to a shelter or rescue, it’s advisable to get them checked by a vet if possible. This could help identify any health issues that need immediate attention. Also, it would be helpful to socialize the kittens. Socialized kittens have better chances of being adopted quickly.

Q2. Can I charge an adoption fee if I find homes for the kittens myself?

Yes, you can charge a nominal adoption fee. This fee often acts as a filter, ensuring the kittens are adopted by individuals who are serious about pet ownership. However, it’s important to keep this fee reasonable and use it for the benefit of the kittens, such as covering veterinary check-ups or vaccinations.

Q3. What is a foster home, and how does it work?

A foster home provides a temporary living arrangement for kittens until a permanent home can be found. Foster owners care for the pets as their own, providing them with food, shelter, love, and sometimes even basic training. This arrangement can be especially beneficial for kittens, giving them a more homely environment during their early developmental stages.

Q4. How can I ensure the kittens are going to safe homes?

If you’re rehoming the kittens yourself, it’s crucial to vet potential adopters. You can do this by conducting informal interviews, asking about their experience with pets, the kind of home they can provide, and if they’re prepared for the long-term commitment. Some people also request home visits or regular updates on the kittens after adoption to ensure their well-being.

Q5. What if I can’t find a shelter or rescue that will take the kittens?

In the rare instance you can’t find a shelter or rescue that will take the kittens, reach out to your local vet clinics or pet supply stores. They might know of families looking to adopt or can guide you towards lesser-known rescue organizations. Online pet adoption platforms can also be a last resort, but remember to use these responsibly to ensure the kittens’ safety.

Q6. What’s the difference between a no-kill shelter and a regular animal shelter?

A no-kill shelter is a type of animal shelter that does not euthanize healthy or treatable animals even when the shelter is full, reserving euthanasia for terminally ill animals or those considered dangerous to public safety. On the other hand, traditional shelters—often due to lack of space or resources—may euthanize animals that are not adopted within a certain timeframe.

Q7. How can I help if I can’t take the kittens but want to support them?

Even if you can’t physically take the kittens, there are many ways to help. You could sponsor their vet check-ups or donate to the shelter taking them in. Sharing their photos and adoption details on your social media platforms can also help find them loving homes quickly.

Q8. Can I still help if I’m allergic to cats?

Absolutely! There are numerous ways to assist without direct contact with the kittens. You could support the cause by donating to animal shelters or rescue organizations, helping with their fundraisers, spreading awareness about adoption on social media, or even volunteering for non-animal-handling roles, like administrative tasks or event planning.

Q9. What happens to the kittens if they aren’t adopted?

The fate of unadopted kittens varies depending on the facility. No-kill shelters pledge to care for the kittens until they find permanent homes, no matter how long it takes. Traditional shelters, due to constraints like space and resources, may unfortunately have to euthanize animals that are not adopted within a certain timeframe. That’s why it’s so crucial to spread awareness about the importance of pet adoption.

Q10. What are the benefits of adopting a kitten from a shelter instead of buying from a pet store or breeder?

Adopting from a shelter often means saving a life. Many shelter animals are in desperate need of homes. Also, shelter pets are usually vet-checked, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered, which are all included in the adoption fee. On the other hand, buying from pet stores or breeders not only typically costs more, but it can also indirectly support puppy mills and similar mass-breeding establishments.

Q11. Can kittens from shelters or rescue groups get along with my existing pets?

Yes, most shelter or rescue kittens can adapt to living with other pets. Keep in mind, however, that proper introductions and patience are key. It’s recommended to keep the new kitten separate at first and gradually introduce them to your existing pets. The process may take time, but with a proper introduction, your pets can establish a harmonious relationship.

Q12. Are there specific shelters or organizations that specialize in certain types of cats?

Yes, there are breed-specific rescues for nearly every type of cat. These organizations primarily focus on a single breed, catering to individuals looking for specific traits or breeds. There are also rescues dedicated to helping cats with special needs, such as older cats or those with health issues. It’s always a good idea to do a bit of research to find the right fit for your family and lifestyle.

Q13. What should I know about the health of kittens from shelters or rescue groups?

Most shelters and rescue groups ensure that kittens are in good health before adoption. They receive necessary medical examinations, vaccinations, deworming, and are often spayed or neutered. However, it’s always a good idea to take your new kitten to a vet for a thorough check-up after adoption to ensure they’re in perfect health and to set up a future vaccination and wellness plan.

Q14. What should I consider before adopting a kitten?

Adopting a kitten is a long-term commitment, often lasting 15 years or more. Before adoption, consider factors like your living situation, financial capability, availability, and whether all family members are on board with the decision. Kittens require time, money, and dedication. Ensure you’re ready for the responsibilities like feeding, litter training, vet visits, and plenty of playtime.

Q15. Are there any restrictions or special requirements for adopting a kitten from a shelter?

Requirements for adoption vary by shelter, but common ones include being over a certain age (often 18 or 21), having a valid form of identification, and showing proof that pets are allowed in your home if you’re renting. Some shelters may also require an adoption application or interview to ensure a good fit between the adopter and pet.

Q16. Is it possible to adopt two kittens at once? Would they get along?

Yes, it’s not only possible but often encouraged, especially if the kittens are from the same litter. They will keep each other company, play together, and it may even ease their transition into a new home. In many cases, pairs of kittens will bond more closely with each other, resulting in less dependence on their human companions for social interaction.

Q17. What does it mean when a shelter is ‘at capacity’? What happens then?

When a shelter is ‘at capacity’, it means they have no more space to house additional animals. This could limit their ability to take in more kittens. In such cases, they may rely on foster homes or transfers to other facilities. It might also increase their efforts in promoting adoptions to free up space.

Q18. Can I adopt a kitten as a gift for someone else?

While the intention might be thoughtful, it’s usually not recommended to adopt a pet as a gift. Adopting a pet is a personal and long-term commitment. The person receiving the pet should be completely prepared and willing to care for the pet, making the decision themselves. If you want to help, consider giving a ‘gift certificate’ towards the adoption fee instead.