Adoptions FAQ

What’s included?

All adoptions include:

• First round of standard “core” vaccinations (does not include rabies or feline leukemia)**. If the cat is in care when any boosters are due we will ensure this done as well. If the cat is adopted prior to the due date of the booster it is the responsibility of the adopter to get this done at their vet of choice at their own expense.
• Flea and other external parasite treatments as required
• Routine deworming and other internal parasite treatments as required
• Spay or neuter surgery (In some circumstances the kitten will be adopted out prior to surgery. The adopter agrees to return the kitten at the time and place previously booked to have the surgery completed at our expense)
• Microchip identification implant and registration.
• Medical treatment if required while in our care
• Daily monitoring.

Shy Cats

Lots of our cats were trapped in the community and have past trauma as a result. They will be loving cats, but their introduction and start in your home is vital. We will be careful to identify our shy cats and ask that you follow all the steps below when your first bring them home.

To help a shy cat it’s important to be patient and provide a safe and enriching environment. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Create a quiet space: Set up a designated area in your home where the shy cat can retreat to feel safe. Include a cozy bed, hiding spots, and scratching posts in this space.
   
2. Do not free feed! These cats need to be shown that you are a safe person. They need a reason to come out and learn that’s it ok and the only reason we can give them is food. Otherwise they hide and take a very very very long time to trust. This is the most important step!
   
   Day 1: allow them to decompress and hide. Leave the food out for this one day only and let them rest. Do not ask anything of them on day one.
   
   Day 2 and 3: Now the work begins. They don’t eat if you aren’t in the room. If you leave, so does the food. Don’t force pats or cuddles, just put the food out and talk to them. If that feels uncomfortable, then read a book outloud. It doesn’t matter what you say. All that matters is that you are using a speaking voice. If you absolutely need to leave for work for an extended period of time (12 hour shift), leave them just a little bit of food so they are hungry enough to put on their big girl/big boy panties and come out to eat with you in the room when you return. If you are simply leaving for a regular 8 hour shift them do not leave out any food and wait until you are back from work to continue with your training.
   
   Day 4: Now the food needs to be right beside you. Try not to tower over them. Still don’t touch them. But either sit on the floor immediately beside the food dish or have the food dish on the couch beside you.
   
   Day 5 and 6: Now they don’t get to eat unless you are touching them. Slow pats or strokes as they eat. You are almost done! Once you pat them they may retreat, but they will come back because they are hungry and you pat again. You are the boss!
   
   Day 7: At this point you are mostly done. Just continue to associate food with your company. They will transfer their good feeling about food to be good feelings about you.
   
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   During this entire time you can also offer high value treats like temptations or churu treats. Even better if you put the churu treat on your fingers (on day 3/4 or later) to have them lick it off you.
   
   Have patience and understand this works! We follow the same pattern before we put them up for adoption. When you meet them you might see more open behavior’s, but know that the move to a new home is upsetting and they might have to take a step back in training.
   
   We will not be putting them up for adoption, if this process hasn’t worked already. Know that if it worked with us, it will work like a charm with you.
   
3. Use positive reinforcement: Reward the cat’s brave behavior (when they approach without food being the motivator) with treats, praises, or playtime. Start by rewarding small steps, such as approaching you or exploring a new space. Gradually increase the expectations as the cat becomes more comfortable.
   
4. Provide mental stimulation: Engage the cat in interactive play sessions using toys like wand toys or puzzle feeders. This helps build their confidence and redirects their focus from fear.

Remember that every cat is unique, and the time it takes for them to blossom may vary. Be patient, understanding, and give them the space they need to feel safe. If you have any concerns or the cat’s behavior doesn’t improve, let us know and we will work with you to sort it out.