Adopting a cat is a touching and meaningful moment. Whether through a shelter, a veterinary clinic, or a private individual, adopting a cat is a decision that requires careful thought. It involves responsibilities, ongoing care, and a long-term commitment.
Preparing for Adoption
Before adopting a cat, it’s important to assess your lifestyle, available time, and living environment. Do you live in an apartment or a house with a yard? Are there other pets or young children? These considerations help ensure you choose a cat whose temperament matches your daily life.
You should also plan for long-term costs: food, litter, veterinary care, vaccines, spaying/neutering, accessories, and insurance. A cat can live up to 20 years—adoption is a serious commitment.
Where to Adopt Your Cat
In Quebec, you have several options. Shelters and animal protection organizations offer cats that are vaccinated, sterilized, and behaviorally assessed. Le Vet Club also partners with trusted adoption networks to support responsible adoptions. If adopting from an individual, make sure essential health care has been provided.
Before finalizing the adoption, ask questions about the cat’s health, habits, behavior, and sociability. Open communication with the shelter or previous owner helps ensure you’re fully prepared.
Vaccination: A Vital Step
Upon arrival, whether kitten or adult, a cat must be vaccinated. Vaccination protects against common and contagious illnesses. At Le Vet Club, we recommend scheduling an appointment 5-7 days after adoption for a full health exam and customized vaccination schedule.
Core vaccines include protection against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. Depending on your cat’s lifestyle (indoor or outdoor), additional vaccines like rabies or feline leukemia may be recommended.
Vaccinating your cat also helps protect other animals and plays a crucial role in preventing disease outbreaks.
Welcoming Your Cat Home
The first days should be calm. Set up a quiet space with a litter box, food and water bowls, hiding spots, and a cozy bed. Let your cat explore at its own pace without pressure. Be patient—every cat adapts differently.
Provide toys, scratching posts, and vertical spaces. These help reduce stress and support a smooth transition. Playtime is also a great way to build trust.
Support from Le Vet Club
Our team of experts provides thorough checkups, essential vaccines, and personalized guidance.
We can also assist with spaying/neutering, microchipping, nutritional advice, environmental enrichment, and parasite prevention.
Adopting a cat is an emotional and rewarding journey. With the right support, you’ll build a lasting and healthy bond.
Book an appointment with our clinic to support every step of your cat’s adoption journey.
