Walk into a shelter in early summer and you will likely find rooms full of kittens. They are playful, curious and hard to resist. You will also find adult cats of every age, some of whom have been waiting much longer for a home. Both can make wonderful companions. The best choice depends on your household, your schedule and what you hope to share with a cat.
What kittens bring
Kittens offer the joy of watching a cat grow up, along with a lot of energy. They climb curtains, pounce on feet, explore every corner and play at all hours. They are learning about the world, so they need guidance, plenty of safe play and patience while they figure out litter boxes, scratching posts and what is not a toy.
- They need frequent meals, a series of vaccinations and early veterinary visits.
- Their adult personality is still developing, so it is harder to predict.
- They need kitten-proofing, since they can get into small spaces and chew cords.
- They usually adapt readily to new experiences when introduced gently.
Many shelters suggest adopting kittens in pairs, especially for first-time cat owners, because two kittens can play together and burn off energy.
What adult cats bring
With an adult cat, what you see is much closer to what you get. Shelter staff can often tell you whether a cat is cuddly, playful, shy or independent, whether it gets along with other cats or dogs, and how it handles being picked up. Most adult cats are already litter trained and past the most destructive stage of play.
Adult cats can be a great fit for busy households, families who want a calmer pet, and homes with older people. They still enjoy play and enrichment, but usually at a more relaxed pace. Many adult cats are surrendered for reasons that have nothing to do with their behavior, such as a family move or an owner’s health.
Senior cats deserve a look
Senior cats are often overlooked, but they can be gentle, settled companions who are content to share a sunny spot. They may need more frequent veterinary checkups and attention to age-related health issues. Ask the shelter what is known about a senior cat’s health, and talk with your veterinarian about what care might look like. Some shelters offer reduced adoption fees for older cats.
Questions to help you decide
- How much time can you spend on play and supervision each day?
- Do you have young children who might do better with a calm, tolerant adult?
- Are there other pets whose temperament should be matched?
- Do you want a lap cat, a playful partner or something in between?
Tell shelter staff about your home and goals, and spend time with several cats before deciding. Whatever age you choose, schedule a veterinary visit soon after adoption to set up a care plan and get answers to your questions about food, vaccines and behavior.
