7 Reasons To Adopt A Senior Cat

June is Adopt-A-Cat month! When people talk about getting a cat, they usually start with "let's get a kitten." Most people will also consider an adult cat, but very few are open to adopting a senior cat (usually defined as 6 years or older). Here's why senior catizens are actually the best around.

1. Their personalities are stable.

Via daws.org

Kittens are blank slates - they could grow up to have any temperament or personality. Older cats have settled into who they are, what they like and don't like, and are unlikely to change. A senior cat that loves snuggling with you today will love snuggling with you for the rest of his or her life.

Suzie, age 9.

2. They're more relaxed.

Via daws.org

Senior cats are calmer and quieter than kittens. They won't destroy your house, keep you up all night, or demand that you run around with them, but they will sit with you, purr when you love on them, and love you back unconditionally.

Missy, age 11.

3. Many shelters have Seniors for Seniors programs.

Via daws.org

Seniors for Seniors programs match senior cats with senior people (usually defined as 60 or above, but individual shelter guidelines may vary). Because of senior cats' calm, quiet temperament, they are usually a particularly good fit for less-active senior people. Additionally, Seniors for Seniors programs usually come with a reduction in adoption fees and cat care tips specially tailored for older adults.

Molly, age 9.

4. They know what they want (and it's you).

Via daws.org

Kittens want to run, jump, play, hunt, and explore. Even the nicest of kittens won't sit with you for very long - they have other things to do! If you want a cat to snuggle with you for hours on end, an older kitty is the way to go.

Gale, age 6.

5. They're litter box pros.

Via daws.org

The older a cat is, the more practice she's had using the box!

Suzie, age 9.

6. They're already spayed or neutered.

Via daws.org

Most shelter cats are already spayed/neutered, but kittens are among those most likely not to be. Senior cats, who've likely had one or more previous owner and/or have spent a long time in the shelter, almost universally come pre-altered. Spay/neuter procedures can cost up to $200 (and more if there are any complicating factors), so adopting a pre-altered pet is a smart financial move!

Missy, age 11.

7. They need it the most.

Via daws.org

Too many people overlook or shy away from older cats. Some are too set on kittens and others fear that an older cat wouldn't be as rewarding, but either way these cats aren't getting a fair shot. Senior cats can spend years waiting for their furever home; no cat should die in a cage waiting for their family to appear.

Molly, age 9.

All cats pictured are available for adoption from the Danbury Animal Welfare Society in Bethel, CT (USA). Visit their website, DAWS.org, to view the cats or make a donation towards their care.