Where Can I Surrender My Cat for Free?
While some options may be free, they may also have certain requirements or qualifications that need to be met before they can accept a cat for surrender. Additionally, surrendering a cat is not a one-time solution, but rather a long-term commitment to finding the cat a new, loving home. Therefore, researching and finding the most suitable and trustworthy organization to surrender a cat is vital.
What can I do with a cat I can’t keep?
Here are a few options for what you can do with a cat that you can no longer keep:
Rehoming
This is the most common solution when you can no longer keep a cat. You can find a new, loving home for your pet by reaching out to friends, family, and local animal rescue organizations. Make sure that you take the time to screen potential adopters to ensure that the cat will be going to a good home.
Foster Care
Fostering a cat is a temporary solution where you provide a temporary home for a cat in need until a permanent home can be found. This can be a great option if you are unable to keep your cat long-term, but would still like to help out a cat in need.
Surrender to a shelter
If you are unable to find a new home for your cat, you can surrender it to a local animal shelter. This can be a difficult decision, but many shelters are equipped to care for cats until they can find a new home. Be sure to find a no-kill shelter.
Nearby places that take cats for free
Having to give up a pet you love is heartbreaking, and the expenses can be difficult to handle. To make things a little easier, here is a list of resources I’ve compiled that will help guide you to surrender your cat.
Local Animal Shelters
Many animal shelters in your area will accept cats for surrender, usually free of charge. They will provide necessary medical care, food, and shelter for the cat while they try to find it a new home.
Humane Society
Your local humane society may also accept cats for surrender and provide care for them until they can be placed in a new home.
Feral Cat Organizations
If your cat is a feral or stray, there are organizations that specialize in trapping, neutering, and releasing feral cats back into their colony. These organizations may be able to take in your cat and provide it with care.
Cat Rescue Groups
Many cat rescue groups in your area may accept cats for surrender and work to find them a new home. They may also provide temporary foster care for the cat.
Pet Stores
Some pet stores have partnerships with animal rescue groups and may accept cats for surrender. They may also work with local animal shelters to find new homes for the cats.
Veterinarians
Some veterinarians have agreements with animal shelters or rescue groups and may accept cats for surrender. They may also provide medical care for the cat and work to find it a new home.
While these options may be free, they may also have certain requirements or qualifications that need to be met before they can accept a cat for surrender. It’s always best to call ahead and ask about their policies and procedures before surrendering a cat.
Can I give my cat to PetSmart?
The short answer is that PetSmart does not take in cats for adoption directly. However, they do work with local animal shelters and rescues to help find forever homes for cats in need. This means that if you want to surrender your cat to PetSmart, they will refer you to one of their partner organizations that will take care of the adoption process.
Why PetSmart Works with Animal Shelters and Rescues
PetSmart has established partnerships with various animal welfare organizations to provide resources and support for animal adoptions. They believe that every animal deserves a loving home and are committed to helping cats and other pets in need.
When you surrender your cat to a shelter or rescue through PetSmart, you can rest assured that your feline friend will receive proper care and attention. These organizations work tirelessly to find suitable homes for cats, providing food, shelter, medical care, and love until they can be adopted.
How to Surrender Your Cat to a PetSmart Partner Organization
To surrender your cat, you will need to find a PetSmart location near you that works with local shelters or rescues. You can contact the PetSmart Adoption Center or the PetSmart Charities adoption partners program for more information on the process and requirements.
Once you’ve found a partner organization, you will need to fill out an adoption surrender form, which will provide essential information about your cat’s health and behavior. This information will help the shelter or rescue to find the right home for your feline friend.
After you’ve completed the form, you will need to bring your cat to the shelter or rescue facility for an assessment. This assessment will ensure that your cat is healthy and suitable for adoption. If your cat is healthy, the shelter or rescue will take care of the adoption process, including finding a suitable home for your cat.
Can I dump my cat outside?
The answer is NO.
Cats are fascinating creatures that bring joy and companionship to their owners. However, they can also be a burden, especially when their owners are faced with the dilemma of what to do when they can no longer keep them. It is essential to understand that cats are not disposable objects that you can simply discard outside when you no longer want them. Doing so is not only inhumane, but it is also illegal in many countries.
Why Dumping Your Cat Outside is Cruel
Dumping your cat outside is cruel for several reasons. Firstly, domesticated cats are not equipped to survive in the wild. They lack the necessary hunting skills and instincts required to fend for themselves. Secondly, cats are social creatures that thrive on human companionship. Leaving them outside to fend for themselves is likely to cause them emotional distress and loneliness.
Dumping Cats Outside is Illegal
In many countries, it is illegal to abandon pets, including cats. In the United States, for instance, abandoning a pet is considered a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the state. Many countries also have animal welfare laws that prohibit the abandonment of pets. Those caught abandoning their pets could face hefty fines or even imprisonment.
SPCA surrender fee
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to the welfare of animals. One of the ways they operate is by accepting animals that are surrendered by their owners. In order to cover the costs of caring for these animals, many SPCAs charge a surrender fee. The fee can vary depending on the location and the type of animal being surrendered.
- Dogs: The fee for surrendering a dog can range from $50 to $150. The fee typically covers the cost of vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any necessary medical treatment.
- Cats: The fee for surrendering a cat can range from $25 to $50. The fee typically covers the cost of vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any necessary medical treatment.
- Birds: The fee for surrendering a bird can range from $25 to $50. The fee typically covers the cost of vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any necessary medical treatment.
- Small Animals: The fee for surrendering small animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats can range from $10 to $25. The fee typically covers the cost of vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any necessary medical treatment.
- Livestock: The fee for surrendering livestock such as horses, goats, and sheep can range from $100 to $500. The fee typically covers the cost of vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and any necessary medical treatment.
SPCAs are non-profit organizations and the fees are used for the care and rehabilitation of animals. Some SPCAs may also offer reduced or waived fees for certain situations, such as financial hardship or for animals that are in particularly poor health. If you are considering surrendering an animal, it is important to contact your local SPCA to inquire about the specific fee structure and any potential discounts.
FAQs about places that take cats for free
If you are looking for a new home for your furry feline friend, you might be wondering where to start. There are several places that take cats for free, and we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you find the right fit for your kitty.
What kind of places take cats for free?
There are a variety of places that take cats for free, including animal shelters, rescue groups, and sometimes even individuals. Some places may have specific requirements for the cats they accept, such as age, health status, or behavior. It’s important to do your research and find a place that fits your cat’s needs.
How can I find a place that takes cats for free?
The easiest way to find a place that takes cats for free is to search online. You can start by looking for local animal shelters or rescue groups in your area. You can also check social media groups or websites that specialize in pet adoptions.
What do I need to do before taking my cat to a free adoption center?
Before taking your cat to a free adoption center, it’s important to make sure they are healthy and up-to-date on their vaccinations. You should also make sure your cat is spayed or neutered, as many adoption centers require this.
How can I prepare my cat for adoption?
To prepare your cat for adoption, make sure they are clean and well-groomed. You should also provide their medical history and any information about their behavior and personality to the adoption center. This will help potential adopters get a better sense of your cat’s needs.
What happens to my cat after I give them up for adoption?
After you give your cat up for adoption, they will be evaluated by the adoption center to determine their health and behavior. They will then be placed in a foster home or shelter until they are adopted. Adoption centers work hard to find loving homes for their animals and will take care of your cat until they find a new family.
What should I look for in a good adoption center?
When looking for a good adoption center, you should consider factors such as the center’s reputation, the quality of care they provide, and their success rate in finding homes for their animals. You should also look for a center that provides medical care, behavioral evaluations, and spay/neuter services for their animals.
How long does it take for a cat to get adopted?
The amount of time it takes for a cat to get adopted can vary depending on their age, health, and personality. Some cats may be adopted within a few days, while others may take several weeks or even months to find the right home. It’s important to be patient and trust the adoption center’s process.
Can I still visit my cat after they are adopted?
Most adoption centers will allow you to visit your cat after they are adopted, as long as the new owner is okay with it. However, it’s important to remember that your cat now belongs to their new family, and you should respect their privacy and boundaries.
Can I adopt another cat after giving one up for adoption?
Yes, you can adopt another cat after giving one up for adoption. However, it’s important to make sure you are ready for the responsibility of another pet and that your living situation is appropriate for multiple cats. You should also make sure the new cat is compatible with any existing pets you have.
What should I do if my cat is not accepted by an adoption center?
If your cat is not accepted by an adoption center, you may need to consider other options, such as finding a new home for your cat through social media or local classified ads. It’s important to be honest about your cat’s behavior and medical history to ensure they find a suitable home. You can also consider working with a behaviorist or veterinarian to address any issues that may be preventing your cat from being adopted.
What should I do if my cat has medical issues?
If your cat has medical issues, it’s important to disclose this information to the adoption center when giving them up for adoption. Many adoption centers have veterinary staff on site or work with local vets to provide medical care for their animals. If your cat requires special medical care or has a chronic illness, you may need to look for a specialized adoption center that can meet their needs.
Can I foster a cat instead of giving them up for adoption?
Yes, many adoption centers offer foster programs where you can temporarily care for a cat until they are adopted. This can be a great option if you are not ready to give up your cat permanently, but still want to help them find a new home. Fostering can also be a good way to provide a safe and loving environment for a cat that may have special needs.
What kind of support do adoption centers offer for new owners?
Most adoption centers offer support and resources for new owners, such as advice on pet care, behavior training, and veterinary referrals. Some adoption centers also offer follow-up calls or visits to ensure that the cat is adjusting well to their new home. This support can be invaluable in helping new owners provide the best care for their new furry friend.
Can I give up my cat to an adoption center if they are not spayed or neutered?
Many adoption centers require that cats be spayed or neutered before they can be accepted for adoption. However, some centers may offer this service on site or may provide referrals to low-cost spay/neuter clinics. It’s important to check with the adoption center beforehand to ensure you are meeting their requirements.
What should I do if I change my mind about giving up my cat for adoption?
If you change your mind about giving up your cat for adoption, it’s important to let the adoption center know as soon as possible. In some cases, you may be able to take your cat back if they have not yet been adopted. However, it’s important to be honest about your intentions and to consider your cat’s best interests when making a decision.