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Meet Olive
Lonely Hearts Club Member
Olive is a spunky 7-year-old diabetic cat. With a mischievous personality, she’s quickly become a favorite amongst the staff at CCS. If you adopt Olive, we assure you there will never be a dull day in your household again! View her profile to learn more.
Adopt
Save a life and find your new best friend while opening up more space in the shelter. After picking out your purrfect match, apply to adopt!
Foster
Volunteer
Get involved by giving back! We have many volunteer roles available to help support the cats in our shelter. A few hours can make a world of difference.
Upcoming Events
Tails of the Painted Cats
Free Seminar: Resolving Litter Box Issues
Free Seminar: Building a Better Bond
CCS at Denver PrideFest
- Ends June 29, 2025
Fore the Felines at Topgolf & Online Auction
Kitten Shower
Cat Takeover at New Terrain Brewing Co.
Santa Paws
Seminar: Clicker Training Your Cats
Seminar: The Benefits of Play
Seminar: Keeping Senior Cats Healthy & Young
Summer Art Auction (Online)
- Ends August 9, 2024
Free Adoption Event & Thrift Shop: Clear the Shelters
The Whisker Whisper Blog
Helping Cats, Boosting Shelter Impact: The Vital Role of Foster Homes
At Cat Care Society, we know that caring for cats is a team effort—and one of the most important parts of that team is our foster network. While our shelter provides safe, dependable housing and veterinary care for hundreds of cats each year, foster homes offer something we can’t always replicate within our walls: a quiet, individualized space where certain cats can truly thrive.
Foster homes complement the work shelters do. They enable us to have a flexible and responsive system that helps more cats heal and grow, and they allow us to stretch our resources further, provide individualized support to vulnerable cats, and ultimately increase each cat’s chances of getting adopted.
Below are just a few of the ways that foster homes support shelters and countless cats, both directly and indirectly!
1. Some Cats Simply Do Better in a Home
Shelters provide a lifesaving refuge for cats, offering medical care, nutrition, protection, and enrichment. But for certain cats, especially those with special needs, a home environment can offer extra support that helps them recover, adjust, or grow in ways that a busy shelter environment might not allow.
Foster care can be beneficial for:
- Kittens who are too young or fragile to be in a shelter setting.
- Mothers and their new litters who need space, quiet, and calm.
- Shy or undersocialized cats who need time to build confidence at their own pace.
- Cats recovering from illness or needing medical care—such as diabetes, ringworm, or panleukopenia—benefit from extra attention and a calm environment that supports healing and wellbeing.
- Senior cats who may appreciate a calm, cozy space outside the hustle and bustle of shelter life.
- Cats who come to CCS as a part of our temporary care program are used to being in a home and may do best away from the shelter.
These cats benefit from one-on-one attention and a stable environment where they can relax and show their true personalities.
2. Foster Homes Help Us Help More Cats
Foster care expands a shelter’s capacity. Every cat that goes into a foster home opens up space in the shelter for another animal in need. This is a critical part of how shelters operate, especially during busy seasons when intake numbers rise.
Fosters also allow shelters to:
- Provide individualized care without overextending onsite staff.
- Isolate cats with contagious conditions to protect the general population.
- Support community members in crisis by offering temporary care for owned cats.
Foster care is not a separate system—it’s part of CCS’ toolkit, allowing us to stretch our impact and offer flexible, creative solutions when cats need them most.
3. Foster Homes Prepare Cats for Adoption
Cats in foster care often show their true personalities more readily than they might in a shelter. This helps CCS provide more information to potential adopters get a clearer sense of whether a cat is the right fit for their home.
Foster homes play a critical role in:
- Observing behavior and habits to help match cats with adopters.
- Helping shy cats come out of their shells with gentle socialization.
- Establishing routines for cats who may have never lived in a home before.
The result? Cats who are more confident, better understood, and great candidates for adoption!
Strawberry: A Foster Success Story!
Strawberry (shown at the top of this post) came to CCS as an extremely fearful cat who demonstrated this fear with aggression. We’re talking about spitting, hissing, growling, and lunging at CCS staff, completely unprovoked. A medical workup ruled out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the behavior. Strawberry was a great candidate for a quiet foster home where she could have space, get comfortable, and work on socialization at her own pace.
In just over a week, a report from the foster stated that Strawberry had become a lap cat, was accepting and demanding pets, and had begun giving “head boops” or bunting, which is one way cats show affection. The foster was also able to quickly pick up on Strawberry’s motivations, favorite toys, and preferred ways to receive pets which accelerated Strawberry’s comfort level and ability to socialize. With patience and gentle care, Strawberry came out of her shell and built a lot of confidence.
After just under two months in the foster home, Strawberry came back to the shelter and was adopted a short time later!
Closing
At Cat Care Society, we’re proud to offer a safe, well-equipped shelter environment for our cats. But we also recognize that cats, like people, have individual needs. Foster homes allow us to meet those needs with compassion and flexibility.
Foster homes don’t replace shelters—they enhance them. Together, we’re able to give each cat the kind of care that works best for them. Whether it’s a cat recovering from surgery, a shy kitten learning to trust, or a beloved pet temporarily staying with us while their owner gets back on their feet—foster care gives us options. And options save lives and produce the best possible outcomes.
We’re incredibly grateful for our foster caregivers and the role they play in this mission. Because of them—and in partnership with our shelter—we’re able to do more, reach farther, and help every cat get one step closer to home.
Ready to Foster?
Foster homes are the quiet heroes of the cat rescue world. They don’t just provide temporary shelter—they provide special cats opportunities to heal, grow, and shine. Their impact can’t be overstated: they help shelters run more effectively, improve outcomes for individual cats, and create a more compassionate, responsive animal welfare system.
At Cat Care Society, we are deeply grateful for every person who opens their home to a cat in need. If you’re interested in becoming a foster, please apply! We’re especially looking for fosters willing to take in cats with medical needs, those needing behavioral support, mother cats with litters, and young kittens. CCS provides all necessary training and support, including costs for your foster cat’s needs from food to medical care.
About the Author: Beth Dokolasa is a volunteer for Cat Care Society and serves on the Board of Directors. She is an instructional developer for Natural Grocers and lives in Indian Hills, Colo., with her husband, daughter, and two cats, Techno and Digit.
The Power of a Photograph
How Great Portraits Help Pets Get Adopted
When I walk into Cat Care Society, or any shelter, with my camera, I don’t see homeless pets – I see stories waiting to be told.
I see cats with beautiful personalities just waiting to come out once they find the right person. Some are shy and mysterious, others sassy or playful, but they all have one thing in common: they deserve to find that Right Person. We live in a world where adoptions begin with a scroll on a screen, where the very first impression is what makes a connection, where love at first sight is very real.
That’s where photography comes in. They need not just any photo, but one that speaks err …MEOWS.
Love at First Glance
Online pet profiles are now often the first step to adoption. A great photo can stop someone mid-scroll, make a potential adopter feel something, and highlight a pet’s unique spirit with their eyes, their head tilt, and their expressive tail.
Think about it this way – would a blurry photo of a dark shadow stop your eyes from scrolling? Or would you instead pause on a well-lit portrait of a clear-eyed feline looking through the phone directly into your soul?
Images like these invite a second look. And that second look can turn into love.
Cloe before and after:
How Do We Do It?
By the time I get to them, most of these cats have had enough days to settle into their new surroundings. Their original intake photo is usually taken just as they arrive. They’re not sure where they are or who these strange people are and it shows. After a few days, most have realized they’re safe. They’ve gotten some sleep, maybe some treatment, delicious food, they generally feel better, and that also shows.
Cleo, as you can see from the intake photo versus the portrait, was all about asking me for attention when I came in to photograph her. Her royal line was becoming obvious! And since then, she has been adopted into a loving family.
How Fosters Can Take Great Photos – No Fancy Gear Required!
While I love volunteering my professional photography for Cat Care Society and others, I know many fosters are doing amazing work on their own — and you want your foster cats to stand out, too.
Here are a few simple tips that can make a huge difference in your cat portraits:
- Use Natural Light
Skip the flash – they’re harsh and scary! Soft, indirect natural light is the most flattering and helps show the cat’s eyes clearly. Find a spot near a big window or a well lit room, and if you can lure with high reward treats (tuna juice, churu) get your cat to face the light source. - Get Low
Photograph at the cat’s eye level. It creates a more intimate, engaging image than shooting from above. - Keep the Background Simple
A clean backdrop (like a couch, or bare wall) keeps the focus on the cat. Make sure there aren’t other family members in the background, or a TV (even a TV that’s off becomes a distraction). - Capture Personality
Whether your foster is a curious climber or a blanket burrito, catch them in a moment that reflects them. Maybe on their favorite perch enjoying the view, or tousling with their toys. It doesn’t have to be perfect – it just has to be real. - Patience is Key
Use toys or treats to guide attention. Soft sounds also work to get their eyes to the camera – little bells, whispers, pspspst. Let them be curious. If they walk away, give it time. You might catch magic in the in-between moments. - Take a Lot, and Then Edit
You might take 20+ shots to get one great one. That’s totally normal! Edit down to the ones that are sharp and have bright eyes. Looking right at the camera is ideal.
A Small Moment Can Change a Life
The next time you see an adoption profile, take a second to really see the cat. If you feel drawn in by the photo – even if just for a moment – know that was no accident.
It was love, caught in a frame.
About the Photographer:
Susie Inverso owns Crimson Cat Studios Pet Photography in Lakewood, CO. She specializes in capturing the true spirit of companion animals through compassionate, story-driven portraits. You can learn more about her at www.crimsoncatstudios.com
Before and After Examples
What to Expect When You Adopt a Senior Cat
Introduction
Cat Care Society believes that all cats are worthy, regardless of their age or abilities. Senior cats, in particular, hold an extra special place in our hearts—and it’s not just us! Time and again, we hear from adopters who submit successful adoption updates that feel the same way. Senior cats are sometimes overlooked in shelters, but those who choose to adopt them often say it’s extremely rewarding and they’re amazed at the quick and deep connections they make.
While every senior cat is unique and has their own personality, there are some common things you can expect and prepare for when you adopt a senior cat, which we’ll share later in this article.
But First, What Is a Senior Cat?
Unlike humans, cats don’t start receiving AARP letters in the mail to let them know they’re considered a senior, but they do often show their age in subtle ways, through their physical health and behavior. Cats typically enter the senior category at age 10, which is when their nutritional and wellness needs begin to shift. However, some veterinarians begin senior wellness exams as early as age seven to help catch potential health concerns early.
Like humans, cats can age prematurely due to lifestyle factors such as lack of nutrition, trauma or injury, and lack of preventative veterinary care. When a cat’s history is unknown—as is often the case with strays and other cats seen in shelters—veterinarians rely on indicators such as the condition of their teeth, skin, coat, eyes, and mobility to estimate age.
What You Can Expect When You Adopt A Senior Cat
Below are some common, but often unexpected, traits and tips from senior cat households.
- Expect a Mellow and Appreciative Companion: Yes, senior cats often sleep more, but they’re also wise and experienced, and therefore less curious and mischievous than their younger counterparts. Not only will you be waking up less to the midnight zoomies and other cute but chaotic kitten energy, your new senior friend will likely be more than happy to curl up in your lap or nearby to keep you company while you work or relax.
Because older cats have lived longer and likely experienced highs and lows, they recognize when they’ve got it good! When you bring a senior cat into your home and provide them with a cozy bed, stable routine, and tasty food, they are more than happy to show their gratitude and appreciation. Whether it’s slow blinks, sweet head bumps, or deep purring, senior cats have their own gentle ways of expressing love and appreciation.
- Expect a Senior Cat to Need Little Training, Just Some Time to Adjust: Most senior cats have lived in a home before; they understand household routines and are usually litter box trained, making the transition to their new home life easier. Some senior cats may need a little extra time to feel like themselves again after shelter life, and your patience goes a long way. With less training required, there’s more time to focus on bonding, which can help them adjust.
- Expect Specific Mealtime Needs: As cats age, they require different nutrient profiles to thrive. Healthy senior cats often do well with senior-formulated dry and wet foods, which are typically higher in protein and lower in calories and fat. They may also be enriched with supplements like antioxidants and glucosamine for joint health. Additionally, as cats get older, they may develop health conditions that require specially formulated and prescription food, such as for kidney support and diabetes.
Along with a special diet, senior cats may require ongoing medication, depending on the health condition. Fortunately, just like other habits, such as always escorting you to the bathroom or meowing loudly if their mealtime is even one minute late, cats can also get into the routine of taking their medicine. When you adopt a cat with a health condition from Cat Care Society, you’ll receive guidance on what foods and treats may be most appropriate for your new cat, as well as instructions on how to administer any required medication to set you both up for success. For cats requiring specialized ongoing care, we may have you meet with our veterinary team before completing the adoption to ensure you understand your new pet’s medical needs, feel confident transitioning them to your home, and have all the information you need to continue care with your preferred veterinarian.
- Expect to Plan Ahead with Pet Insurance: If you are planning on getting pet insurance, be sure to get it as soon as you adopt a senior cat. This will help ensure that any health conditions that arise will be covered, as most pre-existing conditions are not. Read more in our pet insurance blog article.
- Expect Your Senior Cat to Embrace Play, Puzzles, and Peaceful Moments: Senior cats still enjoy and benefit from play and enrichment; they might just have shorter endurance and be a bit more selective in how and when they participate. Puzzle feeders and other food- and treat-dispensing toys offer mental stimulation. Opportunities to climb and gentle play with wands and crinkle toys provide physical enrichment, and creating intentional warm and sunny spots as well as places to hide and recharge support emotional wellbeing.
Closing
Opening your home to a senior cat means offering love, comfort, and stability when they need and appreciate it the most. Plus, the bond and companionship you’ll share can be incredibly rewarding.
At Cat Care Society, we know how special older cats are, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re a first-time adopter or an experienced cat parent, we invite you to consider the joy of bringing home a senior cat.
Please note that the traits we’ve shared are common among senior cats, but not guaranteed. Your new feline friend may have their own quirks and needs based on their personality and life experiences.
When browsing our cats available for adoption, you can filter by age group (see image below) to easily find your perfect senior friend. Many of our older cats are members of our Lonely Hearts Club, a group of special cats chosen by CCS staff to spotlight those who have been overlooked in the past, despite their potential to thrive in the right home. No matter their past experiences, a senior cat’s next chapter with you could be the most meaningful.
About the Author: Beth Dokolasa is a volunteer for Cat Care Society and serves on the Board of Directors. She is an instructional developer for Natural Grocers and lives in Indian Hills, Colo., with her husband, daughter, and two cats, Techno and Digit.
Helping Cats, Boosting Shelter Impact: The Vital Role of Foster Homes
At Cat Care Society, we know that caring for cats is a team effort—and one of the most important parts of that team is our foster network. While our shelter provides safe, dependable housing and veterinary care for hundreds of cats each year, foster homes offer something we can’t always replicate within our walls: a quiet, individualized space where certain cats can truly thrive.
Foster homes complement the work shelters do. They enable us to have a flexible and responsive system that helps more cats heal and grow, and they allow us to stretch our resources further, provide individualized support to vulnerable cats, and ultimately increase each cat’s chances of getting adopted.
Below are just a few of the ways that foster homes support shelters and countless cats, both directly and indirectly!
1. Some Cats Simply Do Better in a Home
Shelters provide a lifesaving refuge for cats, offering medical care, nutrition, protection, and enrichment. But for certain cats, especially those with special needs, a home environment can offer extra support that helps them recover, adjust, or grow in ways that a busy shelter environment might not allow.
Foster care can be beneficial for:
- Kittens who are too young or fragile to be in a shelter setting.
- Mothers and their new litters who need space, quiet, and calm.
- Shy or undersocialized cats who need time to build confidence at their own pace.
- Cats recovering from illness or needing medical care—such as diabetes, ringworm, or panleukopenia—benefit from extra attention and a calm environment that supports healing and wellbeing.
- Senior cats who may appreciate a calm, cozy space outside the hustle and bustle of shelter life.
- Cats who come to CCS as a part of our temporary care program are used to being in a home and may do best away from the shelter.
These cats benefit from one-on-one attention and a stable environment where they can relax and show their true personalities.
2. Foster Homes Help Us Help More Cats
Foster care expands a shelter’s capacity. Every cat that goes into a foster home opens up space in the shelter for another animal in need. This is a critical part of how shelters operate, especially during busy seasons when intake numbers rise.
Fosters also allow shelters to:
- Provide individualized care without overextending onsite staff.
- Isolate cats with contagious conditions to protect the general population.
- Support community members in crisis by offering temporary care for owned cats.
Foster care is not a separate system—it’s part of CCS’ toolkit, allowing us to stretch our impact and offer flexible, creative solutions when cats need them most.
3. Foster Homes Prepare Cats for Adoption
Cats in foster care often show their true personalities more readily than they might in a shelter. This helps CCS provide more information to potential adopters get a clearer sense of whether a cat is the right fit for their home.
Foster homes play a critical role in:
- Observing behavior and habits to help match cats with adopters.
- Helping shy cats come out of their shells with gentle socialization.
- Establishing routines for cats who may have never lived in a home before.
The result? Cats who are more confident, better understood, and great candidates for adoption!
Strawberry: A Foster Success Story!
Strawberry (shown at the top of this post) came to CCS as an extremely fearful cat who demonstrated this fear with aggression. We’re talking about spitting, hissing, growling, and lunging at CCS staff, completely unprovoked. A medical workup ruled out any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the behavior. Strawberry was a great candidate for a quiet foster home where she could have space, get comfortable, and work on socialization at her own pace.
In just over a week, a report from the foster stated that Strawberry had become a lap cat, was accepting and demanding pets, and had begun giving “head boops” or bunting, which is one way cats show affection. The foster was also able to quickly pick up on Strawberry’s motivations, favorite toys, and preferred ways to receive pets which accelerated Strawberry’s comfort level and ability to socialize. With patience and gentle care, Strawberry came out of her shell and built a lot of confidence.
After just under two months in the foster home, Strawberry came back to the shelter and was adopted a short time later!
Closing
At Cat Care Society, we’re proud to offer a safe, well-equipped shelter environment for our cats. But we also recognize that cats, like people, have individual needs. Foster homes allow us to meet those needs with compassion and flexibility.
Foster homes don’t replace shelters—they enhance them. Together, we’re able to give each cat the kind of care that works best for them. Whether it’s a cat recovering from surgery, a shy kitten learning to trust, or a beloved pet temporarily staying with us while their owner gets back on their feet—foster care gives us options. And options save lives and produce the best possible outcomes.
We’re incredibly grateful for our foster caregivers and the role they play in this mission. Because of them—and in partnership with our shelter—we’re able to do more, reach farther, and help every cat get one step closer to home.
Ready to Foster?
Foster homes are the quiet heroes of the cat rescue world. They don’t just provide temporary shelter—they provide special cats opportunities to heal, grow, and shine. Their impact can’t be overstated: they help shelters run more effectively, improve outcomes for individual cats, and create a more compassionate, responsive animal welfare system.
At Cat Care Society, we are deeply grateful for every person who opens their home to a cat in need. If you’re interested in becoming a foster, please apply! We’re especially looking for fosters willing to take in cats with medical needs, those needing behavioral support, mother cats with litters, and young kittens. CCS provides all necessary training and support, including costs for your foster cat’s needs from food to medical care.
About the Author: Beth Dokolasa is a volunteer for Cat Care Society and serves on the Board of Directors. She is an instructional developer for Natural Grocers and lives in Indian Hills, Colo., with her husband, daughter, and two cats, Techno and Digit.
The Power of a Photograph
How Great Portraits Help Pets Get Adopted
When I walk into Cat Care Society, or any shelter, with my camera, I don’t see homeless pets – I see stories waiting to be told.
I see cats with beautiful personalities just waiting to come out once they find the right person. Some are shy and mysterious, others sassy or playful, but they all have one thing in common: they deserve to find that Right Person. We live in a world where adoptions begin with a scroll on a screen, where the very first impression is what makes a connection, where love at first sight is very real.
That’s where photography comes in. They need not just any photo, but one that speaks err …MEOWS.
Love at First Glance
Online pet profiles are now often the first step to adoption. A great photo can stop someone mid-scroll, make a potential adopter feel something, and highlight a pet’s unique spirit with their eyes, their head tilt, and their expressive tail.
Think about it this way – would a blurry photo of a dark shadow stop your eyes from scrolling? Or would you instead pause on a well-lit portrait of a clear-eyed feline looking through the phone directly into your soul?
Images like these invite a second look. And that second look can turn into love.
Cloe before and after:
How Do We Do It?
By the time I get to them, most of these cats have had enough days to settle into their new surroundings. Their original intake photo is usually taken just as they arrive. They’re not sure where they are or who these strange people are and it shows. After a few days, most have realized they’re safe. They’ve gotten some sleep, maybe some treatment, delicious food, they generally feel better, and that also shows.
Cleo, as you can see from the intake photo versus the portrait, was all about asking me for attention when I came in to photograph her. Her royal line was becoming obvious! And since then, she has been adopted into a loving family.
How Fosters Can Take Great Photos – No Fancy Gear Required!
While I love volunteering my professional photography for Cat Care Society and others, I know many fosters are doing amazing work on their own — and you want your foster cats to stand out, too.
Here are a few simple tips that can make a huge difference in your cat portraits:
- Use Natural Light
Skip the flash – they’re harsh and scary! Soft, indirect natural light is the most flattering and helps show the cat’s eyes clearly. Find a spot near a big window or a well lit room, and if you can lure with high reward treats (tuna juice, churu) get your cat to face the light source. - Get Low
Photograph at the cat’s eye level. It creates a more intimate, engaging image than shooting from above. - Keep the Background Simple
A clean backdrop (like a couch, or bare wall) keeps the focus on the cat. Make sure there aren’t other family members in the background, or a TV (even a TV that’s off becomes a distraction). - Capture Personality
Whether your foster is a curious climber or a blanket burrito, catch them in a moment that reflects them. Maybe on their favorite perch enjoying the view, or tousling with their toys. It doesn’t have to be perfect – it just has to be real. - Patience is Key
Use toys or treats to guide attention. Soft sounds also work to get their eyes to the camera – little bells, whispers, pspspst. Let them be curious. If they walk away, give it time. You might catch magic in the in-between moments. - Take a Lot, and Then Edit
You might take 20+ shots to get one great one. That’s totally normal! Edit down to the ones that are sharp and have bright eyes. Looking right at the camera is ideal.
A Small Moment Can Change a Life
The next time you see an adoption profile, take a second to really see the cat. If you feel drawn in by the photo – even if just for a moment – know that was no accident.
It was love, caught in a frame.
About the Photographer:
Susie Inverso owns Crimson Cat Studios Pet Photography in Lakewood, CO. She specializes in capturing the true spirit of companion animals through compassionate, story-driven portraits. You can learn more about her at www.crimsoncatstudios.com
Before and After Examples
What to Expect When You Adopt a Senior Cat
Introduction
Cat Care Society believes that all cats are worthy, regardless of their age or abilities. Senior cats, in particular, hold an extra special place in our hearts—and it’s not just us! Time and again, we hear from adopters who submit successful adoption updates that feel the same way. Senior cats are sometimes overlooked in shelters, but those who choose to adopt them often say it’s extremely rewarding and they’re amazed at the quick and deep connections they make.
While every senior cat is unique and has their own personality, there are some common things you can expect and prepare for when you adopt a senior cat, which we’ll share later in this article.
But First, What Is a Senior Cat?
Unlike humans, cats don’t start receiving AARP letters in the mail to let them know they’re considered a senior, but they do often show their age in subtle ways, through their physical health and behavior. Cats typically enter the senior category at age 10, which is when their nutritional and wellness needs begin to shift. However, some veterinarians begin senior wellness exams as early as age seven to help catch potential health concerns early.
Like humans, cats can age prematurely due to lifestyle factors such as lack of nutrition, trauma or injury, and lack of preventative veterinary care. When a cat’s history is unknown—as is often the case with strays and other cats seen in shelters—veterinarians rely on indicators such as the condition of their teeth, skin, coat, eyes, and mobility to estimate age.
What You Can Expect When You Adopt A Senior Cat
Below are some common, but often unexpected, traits and tips from senior cat households.
- Expect a Mellow and Appreciative Companion: Yes, senior cats often sleep more, but they’re also wise and experienced, and therefore less curious and mischievous than their younger counterparts. Not only will you be waking up less to the midnight zoomies and other cute but chaotic kitten energy, your new senior friend will likely be more than happy to curl up in your lap or nearby to keep you company while you work or relax.
Because older cats have lived longer and likely experienced highs and lows, they recognize when they’ve got it good! When you bring a senior cat into your home and provide them with a cozy bed, stable routine, and tasty food, they are more than happy to show their gratitude and appreciation. Whether it’s slow blinks, sweet head bumps, or deep purring, senior cats have their own gentle ways of expressing love and appreciation.
- Expect a Senior Cat to Need Little Training, Just Some Time to Adjust: Most senior cats have lived in a home before; they understand household routines and are usually litter box trained, making the transition to their new home life easier. Some senior cats may need a little extra time to feel like themselves again after shelter life, and your patience goes a long way. With less training required, there’s more time to focus on bonding, which can help them adjust.
- Expect Specific Mealtime Needs: As cats age, they require different nutrient profiles to thrive. Healthy senior cats often do well with senior-formulated dry and wet foods, which are typically higher in protein and lower in calories and fat. They may also be enriched with supplements like antioxidants and glucosamine for joint health. Additionally, as cats get older, they may develop health conditions that require specially formulated and prescription food, such as for kidney support and diabetes.
Along with a special diet, senior cats may require ongoing medication, depending on the health condition. Fortunately, just like other habits, such as always escorting you to the bathroom or meowing loudly if their mealtime is even one minute late, cats can also get into the routine of taking their medicine. When you adopt a cat with a health condition from Cat Care Society, you’ll receive guidance on what foods and treats may be most appropriate for your new cat, as well as instructions on how to administer any required medication to set you both up for success. For cats requiring specialized ongoing care, we may have you meet with our veterinary team before completing the adoption to ensure you understand your new pet’s medical needs, feel confident transitioning them to your home, and have all the information you need to continue care with your preferred veterinarian.
- Expect to Plan Ahead with Pet Insurance: If you are planning on getting pet insurance, be sure to get it as soon as you adopt a senior cat. This will help ensure that any health conditions that arise will be covered, as most pre-existing conditions are not. Read more in our pet insurance blog article.
- Expect Your Senior Cat to Embrace Play, Puzzles, and Peaceful Moments: Senior cats still enjoy and benefit from play and enrichment; they might just have shorter endurance and be a bit more selective in how and when they participate. Puzzle feeders and other food- and treat-dispensing toys offer mental stimulation. Opportunities to climb and gentle play with wands and crinkle toys provide physical enrichment, and creating intentional warm and sunny spots as well as places to hide and recharge support emotional wellbeing.
Closing
Opening your home to a senior cat means offering love, comfort, and stability when they need and appreciate it the most. Plus, the bond and companionship you’ll share can be incredibly rewarding.
At Cat Care Society, we know how special older cats are, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re a first-time adopter or an experienced cat parent, we invite you to consider the joy of bringing home a senior cat.
Please note that the traits we’ve shared are common among senior cats, but not guaranteed. Your new feline friend may have their own quirks and needs based on their personality and life experiences.
When browsing our cats available for adoption, you can filter by age group (see image below) to easily find your perfect senior friend. Many of our older cats are members of our Lonely Hearts Club, a group of special cats chosen by CCS staff to spotlight those who have been overlooked in the past, despite their potential to thrive in the right home. No matter their past experiences, a senior cat’s next chapter with you could be the most meaningful.
About the Author: Beth Dokolasa is a volunteer for Cat Care Society and serves on the Board of Directors. She is an instructional developer for Natural Grocers and lives in Indian Hills, Colo., with her husband, daughter, and two cats, Techno and Digit.
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