Have you ever thought that your next best friend might have four legs and be covered in fur?  At this time of the year, many shelters are full of kittens that were born in the spring, and there is such a kitten overload that the American Humane Association has named June National Adopt-a-Cat Month.  There are numerous benefits of owning a cat, whether you adopt one as a kitten or as an adult. Cats can lower your blood pressure and anxiety levels, and can help children learn empathy and learn more about body language and non-verbal cues as well.  Though dogs are also wonderful pets, cats are more independent, so you can feel free to go away for a few days and know that your cat will be just fine with some extra food and a few toys. 

Consider kicking off your cat adoption month by looking at our Adorable Adoptable shelter pets, such as last week’s cool cat, Snowball, who gets along with other cats and dogs, and who simply adores people.  Other cats like Snowball can be found on Last Chance Animal Rescue’s page here.  For Facebook fans, check out shelter Facebook pages, which are often updated by staff or volunteers who post the newest and cutest cats, such as the kitties being fostered by A Home Fur Now Rescue.  Save-a-Pet Animal Rescue and Adoption Center also compiles all of their adoptable cats on their website.  There are also cat-only animal rescue groups, such as Grateful Paw Cat Shelter, which is sponsored by the League for Animal Protection of Huntington, the Long Island Feline Adoption Center in Smithtown, and The PURRfect Kitty Shelter and Adoption in Plainview.

If you are considering taking home a furry, purring friend, make sure you take a look at the American Humane Association’s “Top Ten” checklist for adopting a cat:

1. If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two.
2. Find a cat whose personality meshes with yours.
3. Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption.
4. Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before it comes home.
5. Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat.
6. Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives.
7. Cat-proof your home.
8. Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family.
9. Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan.
10. If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process.