Adoption FAQs

At Town Cats, we celebrate feline diversity! We rescue cats of all ages, sizes, colors, and personalities. We also care for special needs cats, whether older, shy, or living with medical conditions, and work hard to help each one find the right home.

• Kittens (under 6 months): $250 each, or $400 for a pair
• Adults (6 months-6 years): $200 each, or $300 for a pair
• Seniors (7+ years): $100 each, or $150 for a pair
• Working cats: $25 each
• Silver Whiskers Program: senior cats (7+) are free for senior adopters (60+)

We primarily accept digital payments. A secure payment link will be sent to your phone or email, where you can review and sign the adoption contract and enter your card information. We also accept cash and checks; however, please note that cash payments must be exact, as we cannot provide change

Adopting a cat is a serious, lifelong commitment. Cats live an average of 12-18 years, and some even reach their 20s. Before you adopt, make sure you’re ready for the emotional and financial responsibility of caring for a pet over many years.

Things to keep in mind:

• Stability matters. Cats need permanent homes. Being returned or moved between homes can be stressful and damaging.
• Adjustment takes time. Some cats will settle in quickly, while others may need weeks (or longer) to feel safe. Patience and consistency are key.
• Personality may change at home. A shy shelter cat may blossom into a loving companion once they trust you.
• Costs add up. Beyond the adoption fee, expect expenses like food, litter, toys, routine vet visits, vaccines, dental care, and possibly emergency medical costs.
• Time and attention. Cats need daily care, enrichment, and companionship. Even independent cats thrive when given love and interaction.

Most applicants are approved, but not all. Our goal is to make sure every cat goes to a loving home that’s the right fit. Sometimes we may suggest a different match if we think it will make both you and the cat happier and more comfortable.

We’re happy to make recommendations based on your adoption application to help ensure a long, happy life together. Some cats may not thrive in certain homes, or an adopter may not have the time and patience a particular cat needs. We do our best to prevent mismatches, as returns can be stressful for both cats and families. Please be confident you’re ready before taking the final step. Finding the right match is worth it!

Before bringing your cat home, set up a safe and quiet space where they can adjust at their own pace. Essentials include:

• A litter box and litter
• Food and water dishes
• Cat food (we’ll let you know what they’re currently eating)
• A scratching post or pad
• A comfortable bed or blanket
• A secure carrier for transport and vet visits

Cats feel safest when they have their own space to retreat to at first. From there, you can gradually introduce them to the rest of your home.

At Town Cats, we guarantee that every cat has received appropriate veterinary care within reason. All cats are spayed or neutered, vaccinated for rabies and FVRCP, microchipped, and treated for fleas and worms. Any known medical or behavioral issues are disclosed to adopters to ensure transparency.

While we do not perform exhaustive veterinary testing on every cat unless there are symptoms or concerns, our goal is to ensure each cat is healthy, safe, and ready to thrive in a new home. Once the adoption is finalized, adopters receive complete medical records so you have a full history of your cat’s care.

We review and process applications in the order they are received and will let you know if there is existing interest for the cat you’re interested in. Sometimes applications fall through, in which case we move down the line of interested adopters. If you’re open to it, we’d also be happy to help you find another available cat who could be a great match!

Yes! Cats can be placed on hold for up to two weeks, but only after your application has been approved. A nonrefundable deposit of half the adoption fee is required, with the remaining balance due on the day of pickup. Holds can be arranged if you need time to prepare your home, if you’ll be out of town, or if the cat requires additional medical care before going home.

Adjustment takes time, and the 3-3-3 rule can help set expectations:

• 3 days to decompress (your cat may hide or seem withdrawn).
• 3 weeks to learn routines and start showing personality.
• 3 months to feel fully at home.

For other pets, start slow: swap scents, allow brief visual introductions, then move to short, supervised meetings. Always provide separate resources like litter boxes, bowls, and resting spots.

Patience and consistency are key. Every cat’s timeline is different!

Same-day adoptions may be possible, but each case is evaluated individually. If your application is approved and you are prepared and confident in your decision, we make every effort to facilitate a smooth and timely adoption. Our priority is always the well-being of the cat, ensuring that both the adopter and the animal are set up for a successful, lasting match.

We may consider a foster-to-adopt arrangement on a very case-by-case basis. This is typically not offered for kittens, but may be considered for cats with medical or special needs or if your household has other pets who are shy, unsure, or unfriendly.

The foster-to-adopt period is typically two weeks. During this time, a nonrefundable deposit of half the adoption fee is required, with the remaining balance due on the day of finalization if you choose to adopt. If by the two-week mark the cat is still in your care, we ask that you either finalize the adoption or return the cat to us. There is no fee if you decide to return the cat at the end of the foster period. 

Town Cats will always welcome back our alumni if an adoption doesn’t work out. We know that sometimes circumstances change, and it’s best for the cat to return to us. If you need to surrender your cat, we ask that you complete a Surrender Form so we can prepare for their return and ensure a smooth transition. A surrender fee may apply depending on how long the cat has been in your care, as this helps us cover the cost of re-intake and ongoing support. Our priority is always the well-being of our cats and helping you find the best outcome.