Adopting a cat is not just about bringing home a pet; it’s about welcoming a new family member into your life. In recent years, Ireland has seen a significant surge in the popularity of pet adoption. More and more people are opening their hearts and homes to cats in need. This shift towards adoption is a positive trend that not only benefits the animals but also enriches the lives of their adopters.
In this article my aim is to walk you through the process of cat adoption in Ireland, ensuring you and your future feline companion embark on a beautiful journey together. But before adopting a cat, you have to be ready. You should ask yourself these
Few Questions First
- Why do I want to adopt a cat?
- Am I financially prepared for a cat?
- Do I have enough time to dedicate to a cat?
- Is my living situation suitable for a cat?
- Am I prepared for the long-term commitment?
- What type of cat is the best fit for my lifestyle?
- How will I handle behavioral issues or special needs?
- What will I do with my cat when I travel?
- Am I prepared for the responsibilities of cat ownership beyond the kitten stage?
- How will a cat fit into my current family and lifestyle?
You don’t have to have a ‘yes’ for every single question to move forward. Just understand that these points will be part of your continuous journey with your cat. Adopting is, after all, a commitment for life.
How to Find a Cat for Adoption
Finding a cat to adopt in Ireland can be a heartwarming and exciting journey. If you’re a first-time adopter or looking to add more feline charm to your home, there’s an abundance of support and resources to help you find your ideal cat. Here are the initial steps to take in your search:
Local Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations
Start your search with local animal shelters and rescue organizations. These places are often filled with cats waiting for their forever homes, from playful kittens to serene seniors. Visiting in person allows you to meet potential cats and see firsthand their personalities. Staff and volunteers can also provide valuable insights into each cat’s background, health, and behavior, helping you find a cat that matches your lifestyle.
Online Adoption Platforms Specific to Ireland
Leverage the power of the internet through online adoption platforms tailored to Ireland. These websites and apps streamline the search process, allowing you to filter cats by age, size, breed, and even temperament. Some popular platforms include dedicated rescue websites and broader pet adoption databases. They often provide detailed profiles and photos of each cat, making it easier to fall in love even before you meet in person.
Adoption Events and Fairs
Keep an eye out for adoption events and fairs, which are fantastic opportunities to meet a variety of cats under one roof. These events are organized by shelters and rescue groups to increase the visibility of their animals and provide direct adoption options. They’re also a great way to connect with the animal welfare community, learn more about cat care, and sometimes even enjoy discounted adoption fees.
Here Are Some Local Shelters and Rescue Organizations
Dublin SPCA:
– Address: Mount Venus Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16, D16 H356, Ireland
– Website: [Dublin SPCA]
– Contact: +353 1 499 4700, info@dspca.ie
– Adoption Fee: Varies depending on the age and health of the cat. Typically includes vaccinations, microchipping, and spaying/neutering.
– Adoption Process: Adopters must complete an application and pass a screening, possibly including a home visit. Upon approval, they can meet cats at the shelter and finalize the adoption paperwork.
– Facebook Group: You can find the Dublin SPCA on Facebook [here].
The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) is one of the oldest and largest animal welfare organisations in Ireland. If you have RTE – you might find the documentary they made about DSPCA a few years ago (cute). They operate by rescuing stray and abandoned cats, offering veterinary care, and finding them new homes. Interestingly, the DSPCA also conducts educational programs and campaigns to advocate for responsible pet ownership.
Cats Aid:
– Address: PO Box 5604, Dublin 14, Ireland
– Website: [Cats Aid]
– Contact: +353 87 294 1805, catsaid@gmail.com
– Adoption Fee: Cats Aid requests a donation for their cats and kittens, which helps cover veterinary costs and care.
– Adoption Process: Interested individuals can browse the available cats on Cats Aid’s website
– Facebook Group: Find Cats Aid on Facebook [here].
Cats Aid is a group in Dublin run by volunteers who help cats. They take in cats and kittens that don’t have homes, look after them, and give them medical care. They keep these cats safe until they can find them forever homes. Cats Aid also supports spaying and neutering to keep the number of cats from getting too high.
Galway Cat Rescue:
– Address: Contact for specific location details.
– Website: [Galway Cat Rescue]
– Contact: galwaycatrescue@gmail.com
– Adoption Fee: Adoption fees vary and typically cover vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping.
– Adoption Process: Galway Cat Rescue lists available cats on their Facebook page and website for people looking to adopt. You can look through these cats and let the organization know which one you’re interested in. They will set up a time for you to meet the cat. If you decide to adopt, you’ll fill out some forms and pay an adoption fee.
– Facebook Group: You can find Galway Cat Rescue on Facebook [here].
The Galway Cat Rescue is a leading Cat Rescue center in Ireland. It aims to save cats and kittens from neglect, abuse, and homelessness. They provide veterinary care, foster homes, and adoption services to help these animals. This way, the cats have a chance to start over. The center also has a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program to control feral cat populations in the area.
Cork Cat Action Trust:
– Address: Contact for specific location details.
– Website: [Cork Cat Action Trust]
– Contact: corkcatactiontrust@gmail.com
– Adoption Fee: Adoption fees vary and typically cover vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping.
– Adoption ProcessPeople looking to adopt can check out the cats on the Cork Cat Action Trust’s Facebook page or website. They can reach out to the organization to learn about adopting and arrange a time to meet the cats they like. If they find the right cat, they can go ahead with the adoption.
– Facebook Group: You can find Cork Cat Action Trust on Facebook [here].
This organization in Cork rescues and finds new homes for cats. They have a no-kill shelter where cats stay until they are adopted. They also have a TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program to help control the number of feral cats in the area.
Limerick Animal Welfare:
– Address: Moorestown, Kilfinane, Co. Limerick, V35 H328, Ireland
– Website: [Limerick Animal Welfare]
– Contact: 063 91110 or Out of Hours 087 6371044 info@limerickanimalwelfare.ie
– Adoption Fee: Adoption fees vary depending on the age and health of the cat. The fee typically includes vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping.
– Adoption Process: First, visit or call the shelter for a chat. Next, their staff or volunteers will visit your home. Limerick Animal Welfare requires a secure garden and that pets sleep inside the home. Shock collars are not allowed. Once these steps are done, you can bring your pet home.
– Facebook Group: You can find Limerick Animal Welfare on Facebook [here].
Limerick Animal Welfare started in 1983. Since then, they have taken care of thousands of dogs, cats, horses, goats, and other animals that no one wanted. They also offer services to spay and neuter animals at a low cost to prevent too many unwanted animals.
What’s really great is that they often visit primary and secondary schools to teach kids. They encourage children to treat all animals with kindness and respect.
A.S.H. ANIMAL RESCUE
– Address: Kiltegan, Rathdangan, County Wicklow, Ireland
– Adoption Fee: The adoption fee varies depending on the age and health of the animal.
– Contact Number: 059 647 3396 (From Outside The Republic: +353 59 6473396)
– Email: ashlm@eircom.net
– Certainly! A.S.H. Animal Rescue’s website is:
– Website: [A.S.H. Animal Rescue]
– Adoption Process: Just like other places, you need to fill out an adoption form here too. You can get the form from A.S.H. Animal Rescue’s website or by asking them through email. The rescue team might visit your home to check if it’s a good place for the animal. If they approve your application and the home visit goes well, you’ll get to meet the animal. If you and the animal get along, you can move forward with the adoption. You’ll have to sign an agreement that explains the adoption rules, including your duties and what is expected of you.
– Facebook Group: A.S.H. Animal Rescue has an active Facebook group where they share updates about available animals, adoption events, fundraising efforts, and success stories. Join here .
This shelter is in Co. Wicklow. It helps cats and dogs by finding them new homes. If some animals can’t find a home, they can stay at the shelter. The shelter also neuters all cats older than 6 months before they are adopted out. Adopting an animal requires a donation. This helps A.S.H. Animal Rescue keep doing their work.
Besides these rescue centers, here’s a link to find information on other shelters.
There are many cat rescue centers across Ireland that do important work to help cats in need. They depend on volunteers and donations to keep going. If you want to get a cat, think about adopting from one of these trusted centers to give a cat a caring home.
After Adoption: The First Few Weeks
The initial weeks after adopting a cat are critical for both you and your new feline friend as you learn to adjust to life together. Here’s how to make this transition as smooth as possible:
Gradual Introduction to the Home
Introducing your cat to their new home should be a gradual process. Start by setting up a quiet, safe space where your cat can retreat and feel secure. This area should have all of their essentials: food, water, a litter box, and a comfortable place to sleep. Allow your cat to explore this space at their own pace before gradually introducing them to other areas of your home. Remember, every cat is different; some may take a few days to acclimate, while others may need a few weeks.
Establishing a Routine
Creating a consistent routine is crucial for your cat’s adjustment and overall well-being. Here’s what to focus on:
Feeding: Stick to regular feeding times with a diet recommended by your vet. This predictability helps your cat feel secure and establishes you as their provider.
Grooming: Regular grooming sessions not only help keep your cat’s coat clean but also provide an opportunity to bond. The frequency will depend on your cat’s breed and coat length.
Vet Visits: Schedule a vet appointment within the first few weeks after adoption. This initial visit allows for a health check, vaccinations if needed, and an opportunity to discuss preventive care.
The first few weeks are a time of significant adjustment and bonding. By introducing your home gradually and establishing a stable routine, you’re setting the foundation for a long and happy life together with your new companion.
