Choosing the Right Cat
So many cats! Here is some information on different types of cats - what is the best fit for your new forever feline?
Kittens
Two kittens are better than one!
AVA only adopts kittens under 12 months in pairs, or to a home that already has a young cat (under 3 years).
But why?
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Two kittens will help socialize each other. Often when an adult cat is less-than-friendly, it is because they were not raised with a peer to learn positive social behaviours. Cats are social creatures by nature - they are a lot like us!
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Kittens love to play and need a cat of similar age to wrestle with and chase.
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Older cats can find kittens to be a nuisance. The kitten wants to play while the adult may want to rest.
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Kittens raised together will usually form a bond.
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Once bonded, the cats will seek each other out for comfort, support, and friendship.
Adults
With an adult cat you usually know what you are getting as you have a good sense of their personality. Many juvenile and young adults are still very playful but have more predictable behaviours including what type of affection they like, level of lap-cat potential, and energy level.
Kittens are typically bundles of adorable energy and it can take time for their personalities to show. Juvenile and adult cats have settled down a bit. They are less naughty and less likely to get into sticky situations.
Adult cats, especially slightly older cats, often have experienced hardship. Once you build trust and create a bond, you have a special and loyal friend for life!
Seniors
Senior cats are super chill! They are often overlooked due to their age, and potential health issues, but can make very easy-going companions.
Much like adult cats, we know their personalities, temperament and routines.
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It can be incredibly rewarding to open your heart and your home to older cat who is looking to live out its golden years being doted upon.
Bonded Pairs
Cats are social creatures, much like humans. In the wild, cats hunt alone but they live together in colonies. This is why many cats find a bonded mate, or just prefer to live with other cats.
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While some bonded pairs may snuggle, groom and play together, other times, they may just appreciate having another feline around.
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Have a member of their own species can give them comfort and prevent loneliness.
Shadow Cats
A shadow cat is a shy cat that is often overlooked in a foster home or adoption centre. They are likely to stay in their cage and will not come out and engage with potential adopters. They may want to play with you or sit near you, but are not interested in cuddles.
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Many shadow cats are rescued from hoarding situations or colonies. They are used to being with cats and often prefer cats to people. Being in a home with a more social cat can help a shadow cat develop its social skills and build confidence. They can become more social with some dedicated 1:1 time - learn more about working with shy cats. It is incredibly rewarding once you earn their trust!
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While shadow cats benefit from human interaction, they are usually more independent.
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Shadow cats often spend a long time waiting for a home. We love them and will keep trying until we find a home, but getting a home faster allows AVA to rescue more cats.
Special Needs Cats
It can be daunting to think about adopting a special needs cat, especially if they have high medical needs or expenses. But not all ailments come with a high cost. For example, diabetic cats may cost an extra $60-100/month.
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Some cats have behavioural issues that may otherwise make them difficult to adopt, such as pica (eating things they should not) or litter box issues. These things can be managed with the right environment and patience.
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Other special needs may include cats with physical issues that only need environmental modification such as blind cats or cats with cerebellar hypoplasia (CH), which affects their balance.