“I want a kitten, not a cat.”
Every day, BC SPCA branch managers hear this line as they are faced with countless numbers of people looking for kittens. At the same time, branches across the province are overwhelmed with nearly 1,000 adult cats awaiting homes.
That’s why the BC SPCA is highlighting the many benefits of adopting adult cats, during their annual summer influx of highly desired kittens.
“We have so many wonderful cats who would make amazing companions in any loving home,” said Lorie Chortyk, general manager of community relations for the BC SPCA.
“However, the sad reality is that cats are often overlooked in favour of kittens, and this is especially true during kitten season.”
In animal welfare organizations, “kitten season” commonly refers to the huge increase of surrendered and abandoned kittens that begins in May and continues throughout the fall.
While many kittens are quickly scooped up by adopters, adult cats experience a longer stay at shelters.
The average kitten spends 31 days in care, while the average adult cat remains 77 per cent longer.
Chortyk said the SPCA wants to remind people about the joys of adopting an adult cat.
“There are so many advantages to choosing a full-grown cat. They’re more settled, they’re house trained and their personalities are fully developed, so you know exactly what you’re getting.”
Chortyk also says adult cats enjoy your companionship and affection, but don’t demand the level of supervision of their younger counterparts.
To view cats and all other animals available for adoption, visit spca.bc.ca/adopt.