How To Introduce A Cat To A Dog? 6 Essential Steps

Introducing a cat to a dog? Navigate the process with ease using our expert guide on creating a harmonious bond between your pets.

manx cat cuddles with labrador retriever dog
Samantha Gehrmann / Stocksy
If you have a new cat or are planning on adopting one — congratulations! If you already have a dog at home (who, ideally, you already know is good with cats), you’re probably wondering how to best introduce them. The good news is that many dogs and cats get along just fine. “[They] either benignly ignore one another or act like close friends. They often live together relatively easily despite differences in communication signals and the issue of some dogs viewing cats as prey. However, when the relationship is tense, it can cause deep distress for household members of every species, and can even lead to the surrender of one or more pets,” says animal behaviorist Karen B. London, PhD in her article Dogs and Cats Can Be Happy Together.

There are many ways to go about this introduction, but you can use the six steps below to slowly and safely get your family members acquainted. You can also use this technique for a new-dog-to-resident-cat introduction if you know the dog has lived safely with cats before.

It’s also best to enroll the help of a professional pet behaviorist or trainer, especially if you don’t know if your dog is cat-safe. Nothing replaces in-person observations and expertise for the safety of all involved; it’s worth the cost.

Introducing cats to dogs

How long does it take for a new cat to get used to a dog?

This method of introducing a cat or kitten to a dog uses a crate and lots of time. Taking it slow — which can be as quickly as one week or as long as months, depending on the pets being introduced — is really worth it for everyone’s safety and stress levels (including yours).

Six essential steps in introducing cats to dogs

Step 1: Get your home ready

First, get your dog ready. If they do not already know the commands “sit” and “stay,” they should learn them before being introduced to your cat for the first time.

To get your cat ready, set up their isolation room with food, water, a litter box, and a bed. This room allows your cat a chance to become adjusted to their new home. “Adjusted” is behaving in a relaxed manner, properly using their litter box, not hiding, and no big black dilated irises at noises from the other side of the door. Depending on your new cat’s personality, this adjustment period can take anywhere from one day to several weeks.

Of course, you can spend time with your cat in the isolation room, but your dog should stay outside. You may want to set up a wire dog playpen gate on both sides of the door so you can get in and out more safely, or close your dog in another room away from the isolation room’s door, so if your cat slips out, it’s not right into your pup.

Why is it essential to separate spaces initially?

There are a few reasons it’s essential to initially separate your cat and dog. First, as mentioned above, you want to give your new pet the space to adjust to their new environment. You also want to give both pets a chance to get used to each other’s presence without being in a confined space together and ensure they will both be safe around the other.

Step 2: Feed them on opposite sides of the door

Feed your cat and dog on opposite sides of a closed solid door (not glass, screen, or see-through) for one week. They will begin to associate each others’ presence (smell, sounds) with a pleasurable experience – eating. If your dog starts whining, pawing, or barking at the door, move the food bowls farther away. Keep your pup on a leash and gradually move their bowl closer to the cat’s door each feeding time.

Eventually, when both pets are eating calmly next to the door, expose them to each others’ scent more strongly by rubbing them with a towel (or a toy or their bed) and placing that down with the food bowl for them to smell as they eat.

How does exchanging scents help in the introduction process?

Exchanging scents gives each pet time to acclimate to the other’s scent, which can help them both adjust to having a new animal around. When giving each pet the item with the scent of the other, it’s helpful for pet parents to give that pet lots of praise, treats, and attention so that the pet associates that scent with a positive experience.

Step 3: Introduce your cat and dog through a barrier

This step allows your cat and dog to see each other without making any physical contact by putting your cat in a crate. Before you can do that, though, you’ll want them to get used to spending short periods of time in, ideally, a big wire crate. Many cats already associate a regular plastic pet carrier with scary things (vet visits, being abandoned at a shelter), so it can be worth investing in or borrowing a big wire dog crate. The bigger the crate, the better, but you should still be able to carry it.

Lure your cat into the crate by feeding them right outside the crate. Then, slowly move each meal farther back into the crate. Once they’re in the crate, shut the door for five minutes, then let them out. If your cat is nervous in the crate, practice this two to three times a day until they are relaxed.

If your cat refuses to go in the crate, you can crate your dog instead. However, there are several disadvantages, including the chances that your cat isn’t leash trained, which is necessary for the next step, and, in very rare cases, your cat might attack your dog in the crate, and cat paws and claws go right through most crate openings and can seriously hurt your dog. You’ll also have less control over your dog in the crate than when they’re leashed.

Step 4: Allow your dog into your cat’s room

Once your cat is in the crate, carry it into the biggest room in your house and place it as far away from the door that separates your dog from the room as possible. Put a leash and harness on your dog and bring them into the room where your cat is in the crate.

Have your dog “sit” and “stay” just inside the door, but where they can still see your cat. Have your dog practice sit, down, shake, and other commands for five minutes in that location.

You can allow your dog to sniff at the kennel and your cat as long as they are calm and listen to you if you say “sit” or “come.” Eventually, the animals should be brought close enough to allow them to investigate each other visually and calmly.

With each training session, allow them to get a little closer together. If your cat becomes frightened, or your dog starts ignoring you, increase the distance between the animals and progress more slowly. If everyone behaves, leave the room with lots of praise for everyone.

Increase the length of time together.

Once your pets can be in the same room together without tension for five minutes at a time, you can increase the length of their sessions together. If either pet is agitated in any way, you may have to spend as many days as necessary with the cat in the crate and dog on leash until they are calm and relaxed. You may find distracting yourself with a book or TV show will relax you, which will help them relax too.

Remember to breathe, think calm thoughts, and try to keep some slack on the leash. Pets respond to any tension they feel in you. It often helps to say things aloud in a pleasant tone.

What are the warning signs when introducing cats?

If your dog ignores your commands because they’re too interested in the cat, or barks, growls, or lunges, walk them out of the room. Get their attention outside again by practicing a few commands, then try entering the room again.

Repeat this step — with your dog still on leash and your cat still in the crate — for five minutes at a time, for as many days as you need to, until both pets can be in the same room without any warning signs such as:

  • Tension or stress (tucked ears, tucked tails, lip licking, panting)
  • Fear (avoiding eye contact, turning away, freezing)
  • Aggression
  • Vocalizing

If you’ve spent a week or more trying at least three sessions a day and your cat and dog are still acting aggressively or tense toward each other with no improvement, please consult a professional behaviorist or trainer. Staring is often a warning an animal is about to attack, so be careful if your dog or cat seems “calm” but is actually tense, stiff, and staring.

Step 5: Open your cat’s crate.

Eventually, the animals should be brought close enough together to allow them to investigate each other visually and calmly. Then you can allow your dog to sniff at the kennel and your cat, as long as they are being calm and listen to you if you say “sit” or “come.”

Once your pets have sniffed each other through the crate with no issues, and you can spend half an hour in the room with everyone relaxed right next to each other, you are ready to open the crate. With your dog on leash in a down-stay at the far side of the room, have a helper open the door of the crate. Keep your dog focused on you with training cues and treats.

If your cat stays in the crate, tempt them out by tossing a treat just outside the crate door. If they won’t come out, leave the room with your dog, wait for your cat to walk out of the crate, and come back in with your dog. Your cat may run and hide, but focus on keeping your dog in his down-stay. If your dog reacts to the cat walking or running, you’ll need to go back to doing the daily sessions in the previous step until they’re once again ignoring the cat while they are loose.

One thing you should never do: allow your dog to “play” by chasing your cat, ever. This “game” can turn deadly in an instant. Keep your dog on a leash when not separated entirely from your cat.

Step 6: Your cat and dog are loose together.

After two weeks of your dog hanging out with your cat and seeing them run, jump, and play — and both being relaxed around each other and mostly ignoring the other — you can drop your dog’s leash. Congratulations, you’ve successfully introduced your new cat to your dog.

Even after this final step, keep your cat and dog separated with a physical barrier (crate, door, etc) between them while you’re not home to be certain they will be safe for at least an additional month. With bigger or high prey-drive dog breeds, you may always want to keep them safely separated when you are not home.

Tips for making this process go smoothly

Reward positive behavior

Your dog must learn how to behave appropriately with your new cat, and be rewarded for doing so. If your dog is always punished whenever the cat is around, and never has “good things” happen in the cat’s presence, your dog may redirect aggression toward the cat.

Pheromones might help

“Pheromones are believed to change animals’ emotional processing, especially when conditions are stressful. It’s thought that they function differently than medications that reduce anxiety,” says London. One study on pheromones found that there were significant declines in reported problematic behaviors. “Households using a cat pheromone diffuser saw their cats become more relaxed, while households using a dog pheromone diffuser saw an increase in canine relaxation, as well an increase in friendly greetings and time spent by both the cat and the dog in the same room,” says London.

Seek professional help

Sometimes, even the most experienced pet parents cannot get their dog and cat to coexist peacefully. You may have a dog with a very high prey-drive or a cat who just does not like dogs no matter what. If the tips above do not work, it may be a good idea to consult a certified professional dog trainer, certified animal behavior consultant, certified applied animal behaviorist, or veterinary behaviorist. They can give you personalized tips to help your pets.

Can every cat and dog live successfully together?

If seeking out a professional does not help, you may feel helpless. Our experts at Rehome by Adopt-a-Pet.com have talked to hundreds of pet parents with very similar dilemmas and understand how difficult it can be to figure out the best course of action. In situations like this, it’s important to remember that pets are individuals, and not every cat or dog is meant to live with other pets. If you’re put in a situation where one pet is in danger or you feel having them live separately may be the best option for your family, Rehome can help.

Rehome is a peer-to-peer adoption service that allows pet owners to post their pets on Adopt-a-Pet.com to be seen by millions of potential adopters. Rehome also provides pet owners with all of the tools they need to review applications and choose the right new family for their pets. While we hope proper socialization and behavior training for your pet will help you to stay together, Rehome is the safe, reliable, and free way to find another great person or family to adopt your pet if all else fails. Get started with Rehome here.

FAQ (People Also Ask):

What should you not do when introducing a cat to a dog?

Never allow your dog to “play” by chasing your new cat. This “game” can turn deadly in an instant. Keep your dog on a leash when not separated from your cat.

How long does it take for a new cat to get used to a dog?

This method can take one week or months, depending on the pets being introduced but it’s worth it for everyone’s safety and stress levels (including yours).

Can every cat and dog successfully live together?

Pets are individuals, and not every pet is meant to live with other pets. If one pet is in danger or having them live separately is the best option, Rehome can help.

Why is it essential to separate spaces initially?

Separating spaces initially allows your new cat to adjust to your new home and keeps everyone involved safe.

What are the warning signs when introducing cats?

Warning signs when introducing cats and dogs include tension between the pets, as well as signs of fear, aggression, vocalizing, or any other undesired behavior.

Is it easy to introduce a cat to a dog?

Every pet is different, so the difficulty as well as the amount of time introducing a cat and dog takes depends on the animals involved.

How does exchanging scents help in the introduction process?

Exchanging scents helps your dog and cat to associate each others’ presence with pleasurable experiences, like eating, and familiarizes them with the other.

References:

Animal Humane: How to Introduce a Dog to a Cat

Introducing New Cat to Home

Whole Dog Journal: Dogs and Cats Get Along Together

Introduce Dog to Resident Cat

Best Cat Breeds for Allergic People: Tips to Manage Cat Allergies

Do you suffer from allergies? Some cat breeds may offer you relief from dander allergies.

woman sleeping next to hypoallergenic cat

BONNINSTUDIO / Stocksy

So, you love cats. But they make your eyes water and itch, and you sneeze your head off every time they walk into a room. You’re not alone: Allergies to dogs and cats affect 10 to 20 percent of the population. Sadly, research shows that nearly 19 percent of pet parents who have relinquished a cat reported doing so because of allergies.

Here’s the good news: Cat parents (or aspiring cat parents) with allergies who are determined to bring a feline friend into their lives, and keep them for many years to come, can successfully do so.

Do hypoallergenic cats exist?

The truth is, there’s no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic cat (or any other pet, for that matter). But some breeds tend to produce lower levels of the protein Fel d 1, which contributes to causing fewer allergy symptoms. Low-shedding cats can also be better for those with cat allergies, as less shedding means a cat is less likely to shed their allergen-inducing proteins around the house.

What are cat allergies?

Cat allergies are caused by a reaction to the proteins found in a cat’s saliva, dander, urine, skin, and feces. Some cats might produce less of these proteins or are less likely to shed them, but all cats lick themselves when grooming, making it easy for them to spread these allergy-inducing proteins to your body and cause a reaction. Allergens are also carried on cats’ hair or dander and then settle on carpets, furniture, and even a person’s hair or clothing.

Can hypoallergenic cats still cause allergic reactions?

Just because a cat breed is considered hypoallergenic doesn’t guarantee that every individual cat of that breed will be allergy-friendly or that they won’t cause an allergic reaction for you. Choosing a cat that doesn’t trigger your allergies will take some trial and error, but there are steps potential cat parents with allergies can take to help reduce the effect of their allergies before adopting a cat

For example, age, neuter status, and sex all affect allergen levels. All female cats and neutered male cats tend to produce lower levels of the most common allergen (Fel d 1) compared with unneutered males, so those with allergies would do better to adopt a female cat or neutered male cat. People with allergies should also consider adopting an adult cat because kittens produce fewer Fel d 1 proteins and may give you a false reading on how your allergies will react once they grow into adults. You can and should also do trial petting sessions before committing to adoption and know exactly how you’ll react.

There are also tests that can determine a cat’s allergen levels using only their saliva, but they can cost hundreds of dollars.

Are there hypoallergenic cat breeds that produce fewer allergens?

Some (but not all) cats within certain breeds, deemed “hypoallergenic” breeds, have been found to produce lower allergen levels, but, again, not all cats within the same breed produce the same levels of proteins. What’s more, any cat can have lower allergen levels, including those of “non-hypoallergenic” breeds such as Maine Coons, Persians, Savannahs, Bombays, and Domestic Shorthairs. Allergen levels are individual to each cat — you just may be more likely to find a match with a “hypoallergenic” breed.

Just note: A cat’s coat color, pattern, and length do not affect their level of allergens.

Best cat breeds for allergic people

In addition to taking all of the steps and precautions above, cat lovers with allergies should consider the following hypoallergenic cat breeds.

Siberian

Despite the Siberian‘s long, dense coat, some researchers suggest that this breed is the most allergy-friendly cat because it produces different levels of Fel d 1 protein, the main protein that causes allergies, than other cats. These Russian domestic cats, sometimes called Siberian Forest Cats, have very calm dispositions, are quite friendly, and are good with kids and other animals, but they’ll often pick one person in the household to be especially close to.

Balinese

The Balinese, along with the Siberian, is one of a few cat breeds that produce less Fel d 1 protein than other breeds. This long-haired breed has the point coloration as the Siamese and are bred to be very friendly and outgoing — they’re talkative and will let you know if they’re not getting enough pets.

Devon Rex

The Devon Rex has a very notable coat: it’s short, soft, curly, and resembles hair more than fur. These cats shed less than many other cat breeds and can even sometimes be patchy or partially bald. This breed requires regular bathing to prevent the build-up of oil on their skin (which also helps prevent the spread of allergens). They have a distinct look, with oversized ears and eyes and a narrow chin, and are often on the smaller side. They need mental stimulation and can enjoy learning new tricks. 

Sphynx

Sphynx cats are probably the most famous of the “hypoallergenic” cats because their hairlessness makes them instantly recognizable. These cats still produce allergy-inducing dander, but they shed far less than other cats (for obvious reasons). Because of their hairlessness, this breed needs help regulating their body temperature in cold weather but they are generally willing to wear fun outfits, so that’s a bonus. They require a skin care regimen that most other cats do not because their oily skin is not protected by fur. These cats need consistent maintenance from their pet parents, including regular baths and being checked for recurring acne. Yup, these cats get pimples.

Oriental Shorthair

The lithe and muscular Oriental Shorthair cat may produce fewer allergens thanks to their short low-shedding coats. They self-groom but like to be brushed occasionally and appreciate focused attention from their pet parents and the company of other cats. These intelligent felines have batwing-like ears, long tapered noses, and meow with a distinctive honk.

Ragdoll

The Ragdoll‘s plush coats are as soft as a cloud, making them irresistible to snuggle up with, but their semi-long coats shed minimally, so allergy sufferers may find that they have a milder reaction to this breed. These cats have a gentle and affectionate nature and are always eager to be by your side and shower you with love. 

LaPerm

With short, low-shedding, curly coats, LaPerms are not very high maintenance and may be ideal for some allergy sufferers. They’re a hardy breed and aren’t associated with any particular health problems outside of what one would normally expect from any pet. Brushing them once a week or more during high shedding seasons will help keep them free of mats.

Russian Blue

The Russian Blue can be a cool gray or a vibrant silver shade and often looks like a more elegant house cat in size and muscularity. They have high cheekbones and big, round eyes that are usually a lovely green shade. Though they have thick coats, they don’t shed very much and may produce low levels of the protein allergen most people react to. They like to talk but aren’t terribly loud, so you can enjoy many quiet back-and-forth convos together.

Bengal

Bengal cats not only look different than most other cats thanks to being a hybrid cross with an Asian Leopard Cat, but they also don’t shed as much as other breeds. They also only have a single coat, so regular brushing should help contain their fur, and they do not self-groom as much as typical domestic cats, so they may spread fewer allergens. These strong, high jumpers have beautifully distinct, spotted coats, striped tabby-like bellies, and large pointed ears.

Javanese

Javanese cats have short coats, no undercoats, and typically shed less than other cats, which leads them to produce fewer allergens than other cats. Related to the Siamese, this breed is very loyal to their people and good-natured but has a serious demeanor. They like to snuggle and sleep by your side and can be all different colors.

Burmese

Burmese cats are also related to the Siamese and have short low-shedding coats, which might be suitable for some allergy sufferers. This breed is often compared to dogs because they love learning tricks and playfulness. They will also talk your ear off; Burmese cats love to meow to get your attention and be cuddled. They tend to like other cats and even dogs, so they’re good for a home with a lot of stimulation and available attention. 

Are there any grooming or maintenance tips to reduce allergens in the home?

Bathing your cat once a week reduces allergens, but remember — not all cats are bred to be bathed, and most are not into it. For finicky cats, try cat wipes. It’s always a good idea to check with your vet before adopting a bubble bath regimen.

How can I manage cat allergies if I want to own a cat?

There are a lot of strategies you can employ to minimize a reaction to cat allergens. Regularly cleaning your home, including frequently vacuuming and using a high-efficiency particulate air cleaner or HEPA filter for your HVAC will go a long way toward helping reduce allergy symptoms. So will washing your hands after petting or playing with your cat.

You can also consider keeping at least one room cat-free; the bedroom is a good choice because you spend hours at night breathing heavily with your mouth open there. At least keeping your bed off limits to your cat is worth considering, as allowing them to roll around on it spreads allergen proteins where you put your face for hours.

To reduce allergens around the house:

  • Vacuum frequently
  • Invest in HEPA filters
  • Keeping at least one room cat-free
  • Wash your hands frequently
  • Groom your cat outside of the house

FAQ (People Also Ask):

Are there hypoallergenic cat breeds that produce fewer allergens?

There are hypoallergenic cat breeds that are likely to produce fewer allergens including the Siberian, Balinese, and the Russian Blue.

How can I manage cat allergies if I want to own a cat?

To help manage your cat allergies, choose a low-allergen cat, create a cat-free zone, do frequent grooming of your cat, clean your home regularly, and wash your hands after petting your cat.

What specific characteristics make certain cat breeds better for people with allergies?

People with allergies should look for low-shedding cat breeds that reduce the spread of dander. Adult cats are a good choice because they have stable allergen levels and spay or neuter your cat because it reduces allergen levels.

Can hypoallergenic cats still cause allergic reactions?

Yes, hypoallergenic cat breeds still produce Fel d 1 proteins and may cause allergic reactions.

Are there any grooming or maintenance tips to reduce allergens in the home?

To reduce allergens in the home vacuum frequently, groom your cat outside of the house, use an air purifier, and keep at least one room cat-free.

Are there over-the-counter or prescription medications to help with cat allergies?

Yes, there are several over-the-counter and prescription medications that can help manage cat allergies including antihistamines, nasal sprays, eye drops, and allergy shots. Consult your doctor to determine the best treatment option.

References

There’s No Such Thing as a Hypoallergenic Cat

Polymorphism Analysis of Ch1 and Ch2 Genes in the Siberian Cat

Best Pets for People With Allergies

Allergy Sufferers Can Have Pets Too

The race to deliver the hypoallergenic cat

Do hypoallergenic cat breeds exist? Best cat breeds for allergy sufferers

Do hypoallergenic cats and dogs exist?

Human allergy to cats: A review of the impact on cat ownership and relinquishment

Fel d 1 levels in domestic living rooms are not related to cat color or hair length

Correlation Between Coat Color

Influence of time and phenotype on salivary Fel d1 in domestic shorthair cats

The Truth About Black Cats

Study shows a change in feline diet could curb cat allergies in people

Hypoallergenic Cats: The Best Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

Black Cat Myths: Understanding Black Cats

Thinking about adopting a black cat? Bust myths, gain insights, and make an informed decision with our helpful guide.

By Savannah Admire

black cat crossing path
Jayalekshman SJ / Unsplash
Many animals are associated with specific superstitions and myths, but perhaps none so much as the black cat. From their frequent presence in Halloween decorations to the North American belief that one of these felines crossing your path means bad luck, black cats often have a reputation for being spooky, mysterious, and even dangerous.

But where does this myth come from, and why do black cats get such a bad rap? Dive into the history and myths surrounding black cats, their symbolism around the world, and how you can break the stigma and help debunk these beliefs to encourage more people to adopt black cats.

What is the history of black cats?

The superstition around black cats may date all the way back to Ancient Greece. In Greek mythology, Zeus’s wife, Hera, transformed one of her servants into a black cat as punishment for getting in the way of Hercules’s birth. That servant, known as Galinthias, eventually became an assistant to Hecate, the goddess of witchcraft.

Many of the spookier beliefs around black cats are thought to have originated in the Middle Ages in Europe. During the 13th century, the Catholic Church even claimed that black cats were an incarnation of Satan in written documents issued by Pope Gregory IX, which only contributed to the distrust and superstitions surrounding these beautiful felines. Cats were then sometimes blamed for the spread of the Bubonic plague, which led people to kill cats of every color, but especially black cats. Ironically, fewer cats meant the plague spread faster without felines around to control the disease-spreading rat population. In fact, this superstition continued into the 19th century when black cats were often killed during times of plague.

These beliefs continued into the 17th century during the Salem witch trials in Massachusetts. Many people considered black cats unlucky and even evil, and these cats were often killed along with those accused of witchcraft.

Where did the superstition about black cats originate?

So, why are black cats considered bad luck? There is no definite answer about where the superstitions around black cats originated, but there are several theories. The most basic black cat superstition origin story is that cats were seen as independent and disrespectful of authority, just like the women accused of witchcraft, so it was easy for society to pair the two together.

Medieval folklore associated these dark-colored felines and their ability to disappear in the shadows with witches, and many people believed that black cats were witches (or even demons) in disguise or the familiars or pets of witches.

Because of their dark fur color, black cats were also often associated with death, like crows and ravens. In fact, in Italy in the 16th century, it was believed that a person’s death was imminent if a black cat lay on their sickbed.

Are black cats really considered bad luck?

Today, black cats are most commonly seen as pets, but in North America, the idea that black cats are bad luck still endures. However, there has been a growing movement in recent years to debunk this myth and celebrate black cats as loving pets and companions. In fact, black cats are the most common color of feline, as the black fur gene is the most dominant, especially in male cats. With so many black cats out in the world, adopting these felines is critical to reducing shelter and rescue populations. Plus, black cats deserve loving homes just as much as any other cat.

Do black cats have any positive aymbolism?

In many countries beyond North America, black cats have been considered good luck, or have served as symbols of coming wealth, wisdom, and protection, for centuries.

Good luck

In both Asia and the United Kingdom, owning a black cat is a sign that you will live a lucky life. In Japan, black cats are thought to be positive signs for single women, promising luck in love. In some areas of England, locals believe that a bride will have luck in her marriage if she sees a black cat while on the way to her wedding. Many European sailors believe that a black cat on their ship will ensure a safe journey.

Protection

Black cats are also seen as symbols of protection, and many cultures believe that they can ward off evil spirits and bad luck. In Ancient Egypt, black cats were held in high esteem because of their resemblance to Bastet, the cat-headed Egyptian goddess of home, fertility, and protection from disease. Because of this, black cats were believed to possess supernatural powers, capable of protecting individuals and homes.

In Japan, black cats are often used as a symbol to ward off evil or bad luck, whether in the form of an actual black cat or a figurine.

Prosperity

In some cultures, black cats are seen as symbols of prosperity, and it’s believed that they can bring wealth and good fortune to their human parents. In Scotland, for example, simply seeing a black cat sitting in your doorway or on your porch signifies that you will enjoy some unexpected wealth soon.

Magic

While black cats have been negatively associated with magic and witchcraft since the Middle Ages, in some cultures, it is believed that these felines can help cast spells and perform other magical tasks in a positive way. For example, seeing a black cat in France is far from bad luck — instead, it means that something magical is about to happen to you.

Wisdom

Black cats are also seen as symbols of wisdom. Many cultures believe that they can offer guidance and support to those seeking it, and it can even be a sign of good luck if you dream about a black cat or see one walking toward you.

black cat with yellow eyes lying on their side
Guille Faingold / Stocksy

How can we support black cats and promote their adoption?

Like rabbits at Easter, black cats are sometimes more popular during Halloween — and then end up back in the shelters when families don’t want to commit to a pet. But while myths about black cats abound, just like any other cat, they can be loving and affectionate companions, providing comfort to individuals and families alike.

Fortunately, there are several ways you can encourage the adoption of black cats in your community and keep superstition from influencing adoption decisions, whether you volunteer or work at a rescue or shelter or simply want to spread the joy of black cat parenthood.

Adopt a black cat yourself

The most obvious way to help black cats in need is to adopt one yourself. There are many black cats in shelters and rescues looking for a loving home. Unfortunately, because they are so common (and perhaps in part due to the superstitions around them), black cats have the highest chances of euthanasia of any cat in U.S. shelters. So get out and adopt a black cat today!

Volunteer at a shelter or rescue that specializes in black cats

Look for a local shelter or rescue that specializes in finding loving forever homes for black cats. Spending time in a black cat-specific shelter is a great way to help black cats in need and learn more about these beautiful felines.

Spread the word about black cats

Talk to your friends, family, and social media followers about the benefits of adopting a black cat. Show off your own black cat or those at your local shelter on social media, and encourage other black cat parents to share their own images. If anyone around you talks about how black cats are bad luck, take time to bust that myth and share how gentle, social, and smart black cats can be.

Donate to a shelter or rescue that specializes in black cats

If you don’t have time to volunteer, your donations to shelters or rescues are always welcome. Your donation to a black cat-specific rescue will help to provide food, shelter, and medical care for black cats in need.

Host a black cat adoption event

Help your local shelter or rescue by hosting an adoption event for black cats. This is a great way to raise awareness about black cats and help them find loving homes.

Use social media to promote black cats

Share photos and videos of black cats on social media and use hashtags like #adoptablackcat and #blackcatsrule. Be sure to post on National Black Cat Day on October 27 to celebrate your own black cat and encourage others to do the same. You can even follow Instagram and TikTok accounts featuring black cats, like Rover the Cat, and share their posts.

Black cats are just as playful and affectionate as cats of any other color and sometimes even more so. Remember that every cat’s personality and background is different, but don’t let old myths and superstitions stop you from welcoming a black cat into your home and your life!

FAQ (People Also Ask):

Are black cats really considered bad luck?

Black cats are still considered bad luck by some, but are considered good luck in many cultures.

Where did the superstition about black cats and bad luck originate?

There are many theories about the origins of the superstition about black cats, including in ancient Greece and the Middle Ages.

Do black cats have any positive symbolism?

Black cats are considered good luck in Asian and European countries like Japan and the UK.

Are black cats any different in terms of behavior or personality?

Every black cat is different, but  many are known to be gentle, social, and smart.

How can we debunk the myth about black cats and bad luck?

You can share the truth about black cats with your friends, families, and social media followers.

How can we support black cats and promote their adoption?

You can adopt a black cat yourself, volunteer at and/or donate to a shelter that supports black cats, and even host a black cat adoption event.

Is it safe to own a black cat?

Yes, it is safe to own a black cat — they are not likely to be more aggressive than cats of other colors and are just as affectionate as others, too.

References:

The Effect of Supersition on Consumer Behavior.

Measuring superstitious belief: why lucky charms matter

Appreciating Black Cats

Coat Color and Cat Outcomes in an Urban U.S. Shelter

Coat Color and Cat Outcomes in an Urban U.S. Shelter

The Bewitching History of Black Cats and Halloween


Savannah Admire is a writer, editor, and pet parent to two dogs and a cat. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing Animal Crossing, or being an obnoxious nerd about her favorite movies and TV shows. She lives in Maryland, where she constantly debates whether or not to get a third dog.

Maine Coon Breed Characteristics

Interested in Maine Coons? Learn more about the worlds largest domesticated cat breed.

By Savannah Admire

woman hold black Maine Coon on leash while sitting on a bench
Oleksii Syrotkin / Stocksy
Affectionately known as the dogs of the cat world, the Maine Coon cat is a larger-than-normal feline with a playful and loving personality. With their thick, fluffy coats and sweet chirps, this cat is the perfect family pet and companion. Learn all about what makes the Maine Coon different from other domestic cat breeds, as well as what to expect when adopting one of these oversized felines into your family.

What is the history behind Maine Coon cats?

There are quite a few myths about the origins of these large cats; one of the most popular is that they are actually a cross between cats and raccoons! Of course, that’s biologically impossible, but the visual similarity between these cats and raccoons, especially in their plush tails, is where the “Coon” part of the breed’s name originates.

According to another myth, the Maine Coon descends from long-haired cats sent to Maine by Marie Antoinette ahead of her escape from France. When the French queen never made her way to North America, her cats were left to wander and breed with other cats in the area, resulting in the unique Maine Coon.

The most likely explanation for the breed is still a pretty good story: Viking sailors may have brought long-haired cats with them when they landed in the U.S. hundreds of years ago, and those cats likely mixed with local short-haired domestic felines in the area. The first documented historical mention of the Maine Coon was in 1861, referring to a black and white cat owned by a soldier.

Maine Coons predominantly originated in New England, where their thick fur coats protect them from the region’s cold winters, and have been around since colonial times. If you couldn’t guess from their name, this breed is the state cat of Maine, where they were first recognized as an official breed. Maine Coons used to serve primarily as barn cats, where their hunting skills kept the area free of mice. They were especially popular in the 20th century and remain so today.

How are Maine Coon cats different from other cat breeds?

The Maine Coon is unique from other domestic breeds in a number of ways, most notably their much larger size. So, how big does a Maine Coon cat get? Where most adult cats are no more than 10 to 12 pounds, the size of a Maine Coon can be as much as 25 pounds. Their muscular bodies contribute to this larger frame, and they have taller and longer bodies than other feline breeds. Even Maine Coon kittens grow faster than other cats!

In addition to the larger physical size of Maine Coon cats, they also have markedly different personalities from most other breeds. They are very affectionate and love to be around people, leading to their unofficial titles as “the dogs of the cat world.” While they’re incredibly social, Maine Coons are also independent and easily go about their day without looking for extra attention. These thoughtful cats are very observant, thanks to their natural hunting skills, and can even comfort their parents when they’re sad or help look out for younger members of the family like an attentive guard dog.

Maine Coons also walk with a distinctive gait often described as a “lope” and vocalize with a variety of charming noises beyond the traditional meows of most domestic cat breeds.

What about their appearance sets them apart?

Having evolved to survive harsh New England winters, the Maine Coon is sturdy, very fluffy, and has larger ears than most cats. The tufts of fur on top of their ears even give them a similar appearance to the wild lynx. Maine Coons also have more distinct whiskers — the longest of any cat breed — and a luxurious and fluffy tail that can be anywhere from 12 to 18 inches long (compared to the average 10-inch tail of other cats).

Size

Maine Coons are the largest domestic cat breed, with some individuals weighing up to 25 pounds and topping out at a remarkable 40 inches in length, including their tail. In fact, the past two Guinness World Record holders for the world’s longest cat were both Maine Coons. Compared to an average cat, this breed more closely resembles the weight and length of a small dog (and their personalities are more similar to canines as well).

Fur

Maine Coons have long, thick, water-resistant fur designed to keep them warm in the snowy terrain of New England. Their fur is notably silky and especially long around the chest and neck, creating the appearance of a mane. When properly cared for, a Maine Coon’s fur can grow several inches long.

Colors

Maine Coons can be a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, orange, and tabby, as well as more unique patterns like tortoiseshell, calico, and parti-color (two colors). This breed has been seen in over 75 different colors and numerous patterns — a variety that’s evident when looking at Maine Coon cat pictures.

Orange Maine Coon cat sits on cat tree
Valeria Boltneva / Pexels

Do Maine Coons have a specific personality?

Their size and fluffy fur aren’t the only things that make Maine Coons different from other domestic cat breeds. These cats also tend to have unique personalities that can best be described as friendly and very people-oriented, especially when compared to an average cat.

Temperament

Maine Coons are known for their gentle temperament and their love of people and are often dubbed “gentle giants.” They tend to be far less skittish around strangers than most cats, showing off their affectionate personalities and enjoying cuddling time with their family members. This open and even goofy temperament makes the Maine Coon an excellent choice for first-time pet parents or those with young children.

But do Maine Coon cats get along with other cats? They certainly can! These fluffy felines love other animals and people, but make sure to take time to properly introduce a Maine Coon to any other pets in the home.

Intelligence

Maine Coons are considered one of the most intelligent cat breeds and are highly trainable, just like most dogs. If you have babies or small children, you may catch your Maine Coon watching out for them and serving as a guard cat for your neighborhood. Thanks to their intellect, this breed can easily learn tricks, so don’t hesitate to invest time and energy in training.

Vocalizations

Maine Coons have a wide range of vocalizations, including trills, chirps, low-pitched meows, and, of course, purring. These cats are known for their soft and melodious voices, which they often use to communicate with their parents. Their quieter voices sometimes make them harder to hear, but they are very expressive, using a variety of sounds, including yowls, to communicate with their human parents.

Love of water

Unlike most cats, Maine Coons are known for their love of water. They love to swim in lakes and ponds at the first opportunity, and they even enjoy playing in the bathtub.

Maine Coon tabby cat sits on white desk
nikkytok / Shutterstock

Do Maine Coon cats have specific health concerns?

Thanks to their hardy frames, Maine Coons tend to be fairly healthy, but their larger size also contributes to unique health problems that aren’t as common in other domestic cats. These potential health issues also lead to a shorter Maine Coon lifespan — about nine to 13 years, compared to the average of 12 to 18 years for most cats.

Because of their size, Maine Coons are more prone to hip dysplasia, a hereditary defect of the hip socket. This condition can be mild, resulting in little to no pain, or can lead to severe trouble walking and jumping.

The breed is also prone to more heart problems than most domestic cats, particularly feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), one of the most common forms of heart disease found in cats. This issue is typically found in Maine Coons that are middle-aged or older, so keep an eye on your senior cat and be sure to take them in for regular checkups with your veterinarian.

To keep your Maine Coon healthy, ensure that they get plenty of exercise. This breed has a natural love of the outdoors and can easily be leash-trained to accompany you on walks and other outside adventures.

Adopt a Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is a playful and affectionate breed, an excellent option for dog lovers and first-time pet parents. With the right care and plenty of attention, a Maine Coon can become a beloved member of your family, snuggling up for cozy nights in and even joining you on walks or trips to your favorite outdoor spots. If you’re looking for the perfect feline companion, consider adopting a Maine Coon from your local rescue or shelter today!

FAQ (People Also Ask):

What about their appearance sets them apart?

The Maine Coon is sturdy, fluffy, and has large ears with tufts of fur on top. Their tails are longer than other cats and they weigh more, too.

Do Maine Coons have a specific personality?

Maine Coons are known for their gentle temperament, love of people (they’re often dubbed “gentle giants”), intelligence, and trainability.

Are Maine Coons more active than other cats?

Maine Coons are relatively active and need plenty of exercise. They are especially known for their love of water and swimming.

Do Maine Coon cats have specific health concerns?

Maine Coons are more prone to hip dysplasia and more heart problems than most domestic cats, particularly feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Do Maine Coon cats have specific grooming needs?

This breed has long, fluffy hair that needs to be groomed regularly — daily, if possible.

References:

About the Maine Coon Cat

Vet Steet – Maine Coon

Do Maine Coons Get Along With Other Cats?

Meet the Maine Coon


Savannah Admire is a writer, editor, and pet parent to two dogs and a cat. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, playing Animal Crossing, or being an obnoxious nerd about her favorite movies and TV shows. She lives in Maryland, where she constantly debates whether or not to get a third dog.

Fostering Cats: What To Know Before Fostering A Cat

Thinking about fostering a cat? Here are 6 things you should consider before making the decision.

Ready to make a difference in a kitten’s life?

By Lindsay Hamrick, CPDT-KA

kitten and foster parent
Spring marks the start of kitten season, which means more litters are being birthed now than any other time of year — and shelters are feeling the strain. That’s where you come in. If you’ve ever considered fostering a cat, now’s the time. But while the decision to foster might seem like a no-brainer (who doesn’t want to be surrounded by as many purring, adorable creatures as possible?), it’s a big responsibility, and there are a few important steps to take first.

1. Find your why.

While euthanasia of homeless animals is dropping significantly every year, there are far more cats who are unable to find a home than dogs. Neonatal kittens are some of the most vulnerable homeless animals and shelters can be extremely stressful for cats, causing them to get sick with upper respiratory infections. When appropriate housing for cats in a shelter is combined with lots of enrichment, it can help prevent cats from getting sick, but there is no better place for a cat to wait for a new home than in a foster home.

Maybe your “why” is to help reduce euthanasia of cats in shelters, or maybe it’s to help make their transition to a new home as stress-free as possible. Maybe you want some companionship or to learn more about the stages of kitten development by raising a litter. Regardless of your motivation, it’s important to be committed to giving your fostered animal the best experience possible.

2. Attend any required trainings and talk to someone who’s done it.

Your local shelter or rescue will likely have a process to become a foster parent which might include an application about why you’re interested in the program, an orientation to learn more about the organization and their policies, and introductions to staff or volunteers who will be able to help you. Some questions to ask:

  • Is the organization able to provide you with some or all of the supplies you’ll need, or should you be prepared to spend a little money? Most organizations will give you the basics – food, litter, bowls, toys, bed – but if you’re like me, you’ll end up buying kitten tunnels and interactive toys while stacking the latest cute cat bed on top of a cute cat bed.
  • What is the organization’s emergency protocol if you have a question or urgent issue late at night? Most likely, you’ll be given a phone number of someone on call to guide you through the situation.
  • What are the organization’s medical protocols? Any foster cat or kitten should come to you vaccinated with age-appropriate vaccines (rabies, distemper, and any others recommended by a veterinarian). If kittens are too young, an appointment should be made so they can receive vaccines during their stay with you. They should also be treated for any internal and external parasites like roundworms and fleas.
  • Lastly, ask about the adoption process. Will you be part of helping to find a new home (if you want to) or will the shelter handle the adoption process?

3. Make sure everyone is on board.

Check with your roommate, partner, children, or your senior dog to make sure everyone is excited to foster and then divvy up the duties. Who will be the point person for the shelter and who will make sure that the kittens are eating enough, using the litter box, and not showing signs of sickness? Who gets to scoop the litter box each day (or more than once a day if you’re working with multiple cats or kittens)? Who is Head of Playtime? Raising a litter of kittens can be a wonderful experience when everyone is all in.

4. Prepare the space.

You don’t need an 800-square-foot finished basement to foster kittens. Many people use a bathroom, guest room, or home office. There should be enough space that a litter box is not directly near their food and water, and enough room to play. If you’re short on space, you can create vertical options for kittens to climb up on cat trees or install walkways along the wall. The most important thing is that the room be cleanable. Carpeting or lots of heavy furniture make disinfecting difficult between cats, which is critical if you’re planning to foster more than once (and we hope you are!).

Good ventilation and temperatures that aren’t too hot or too cold are important to keep cats and kittens healthy. If you’re planning to give your foster cat access to your entire home (and the shelter is ok with this!), it’s still a good idea to give them a safe room for the first few weeks to help them acclimate and to watch for any signs of sickness.

5. Prepare any resident pets.

If you already have a pet of your own, remember that most foster kittens can’t be mixed with your pets, at least for the first month or longer in the event they’re carrying a disease that can be transmitted to your resident pets (particularly other cats). Tests for certain diseases are not always an option or accurate until kittens reach a certain age, so it’s better to be on the safe side. Your local shelter or rescue will provide you with any medical information and instructions before you take a litter of kittens or a cat home. Assuming you’re providing temporary care to a healthy cat and the shelter thinks they may benefit from getting to know your dog, be sure to do a slow introduction to keep everyone safe.

Learning about a foster cat’s preferences for living with another animal (or not) is key to finding a loving adoptive home down the road, and the shelter can help you find a balance between protecting everyone from any potential diseases while also letting them experience life in a home.

6. Prepare to say goodbye.

This is the part most people dread, but it gets easier with time – we promise! The first litter or adult cat is always the hardest. You can’t imagine that anyone could possibly care for them as well as you can. While it’s 100% okay to adopt a foster animal, remember that every time you keep one, it impacts your ability to foster again. If you don’t have any pets of your own, you can choose to take on cats recovering from an illness without worrying about making your own pet sick and you won’t have to worry about resident and foster animals getting along. Whatever you decide, pat yourself on the back for saving a life.


Lindsay Hamrick lives in New Hampshire with her three dogs, chickens, and an assortment of rotating foster animals. She forces her elderly chihuahua, Grandma Baguette, on overnight backpacking trips, can diaper a lamb with one hand, and while she’s a long-time Certified Professional Dog Trainer, 66.7% of her dogs still won’t lay down when asked.

Pet Overpopulation: Stats & Solutions

Pet overpopulation is a serious problem. Learn more about the impacts of overpopulation and how you can help.

By Carmen Cheek

overpopulation at shelter
Vulp / AdobeStock
Over six million dogs and cats enter US animal shelters every year, and far too many of those shelters are overcrowded. Especially in southern states, animal shelters are forced to house multiple pets in the same cage or turn homeless pets away. Many shelters must resort to euthanization; each year, 920,000 shelter animals are euthanized.

What is fueling pet overpopulation and high euthanasia rates? Learn about the impacts of pet overpopulation and how you can help.

The causes of pet overpopulation

The driving force of pet overpopulation is irresponsible people and their common, yet harmful, practices, including:

  • Not spaying or neutering pets:

In many communities, it is common for pet parents not to neuter or spay their dogs and cats, and these same people allow their pets to roam freely or dump them. According to the North Shore Animal League, just one unspayed female dog (and her litter) can produce up to 67,000 puppies in just six years. Because pets can produce an abundance of offspring quickly, overpopulation can happen rapidly if not managed, which is sadly the case in many areas in the country. By making the simple choice of spaying and neutering our pets, we can help combat pet overpopulation.

  • Lack of education:

Some communities may not know about the advantages of shelter programs such as foster care, behavioral therapy, affordable spaying and neutering services, post-adoption training and help, trap-neuter-return, and the important role of volunteers. By implementing these overpopulation solutions, shelters can increase adoption rates, reduce intake, and decrease euthanasia rates.

The rise of the puppy mill

The U.S. Department of Agriculture encouraged farmers devastated by the Great Depression to breed animals, including puppies, as a new “cash crop” for the growing pet store market. That, combined with a general view of animals as disposable, overcrowded shelters by 1970, led to massive pet overpopulation and huge euthanasia rates.

The good news is that overpopulation and euthanasia numbers have decreased significantly in recent years. While still huge, we’ve certainly made a lot of progress since 1970. Thanks to a changing view of pets as part of the family. This has also spurred spay/neuter efforts, increased rescue and advocacy organizations, and increased legal action for animal cruelty.

The consequences of pet overpopulation

The primary consequence of pet overpopulation is, of course, the poor quality of life and outcomes for the excessive number of homeless pets themselves. That said, pet overpopulation also negatively affects humans in a couple of ways.

Cost

American taxpayers pay an estimated $2 billion annually for animal control, animal shelter maintenance, and euthanasia/disposal. This large sum of money could be used elsewhere for other important matters, such as affordable spay and neuter procedures or behavioral services. Instead, we use it to regulate this human-generated problem.

Disease

Stray pets are sometimes called “disease reservoirs” due to their likelihood of introducing diseases to surrounding wildlife. Rabies, toxoplasmosis, and canine distemper virus (CDV) are some of the most common diseases transmittable from pets. Disease transmission not only presents health hazards for native wildlife and surrounding animal populations, but also for humans. This is why it is important for us to provide our pets with necessary vaccines and to regulate where they roam.

Threat to wildlife

We often forget that man’s best friends are not native to most environments. Dogs are skilled hunters, and even small packs have the potential to prey on large numbers of local wildlife. This was proven in New Zealand, where one dog killed approximately 55% of the kiwi population within a six-week period. Dogs and cats introduced to a new environment only add to natural predation levels and result in some species of prey not being able to survive. These potential impacts can eliminate native populations and damage intact ecosystems if the problem is not addressed.

Pet overpopulation prevention

The high occupancy of animal shelters around the world shows that there is a lack of knowledge in proper pet care, community services, and understanding of the impacts of overpopulation. Pet sterilization, public awareness about pet overpopulation, and better education for pet parents are all needed to help solve this issue. But what can we do to help address pet overpopulation and the burdens it brings?

Donate

Donating to organizations combating pet homelessness is helpful since it augments these groups’ impact. Local shelters and rescues, humane societies, and spay/neuter organizations are great places to donate. In addition to funding housing pets, donations also go toward educational services to keep pets in their homes, such as pre-and post-adoption training, foster programs, and behavioral therapy.

Adoption

Adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue is a great way to offer a caring forever home to animals who may otherwise be left in overcrowded shelters or wandering the streets. When more pets are adopted, it reduces the pet overpopulation problem in animal shelters. This results in more resources and space for other animals in need, which in turn helps prevent overpopulation and reduce the burden on shelters. Adoption also decreases demand for mass breeding facilities such as backyard breeders and puppy mills.

Responsibility

Pet parents must learn how to responsibly care for their animals to help combat pet overpopulation. There are many considerations to think about before adopting a pet — from lifestyle, financial ability, and living situations. To be responsible, we can spay or neuter our pets. Pet parents also need to commit to care for their pets for their lifetime and provide them with quality care.

Pet overpopulation statistics

How many pets are euthanized each year?

Shelters around the United States euthanize an estimated 920,000 shelter animals each year.

How many dogs are euthanized in shelters each year?

An estimated 390,000 dogs are euthanized in shelters around the United States each year.

How many dogs are in the US?

There are over 76 million dogs estimated to be in the United States.

Do kill shelters still exist?

Unfortunately, kill shelters, or shelters that perform euthanasia for reasons beyond irreparable medical or dangerous behavioral issues, still exist.

How many no-kill shelters are in the US?

According to Best Friends Animal Society, approximately 57% of county shelters in the US are no-kill.

What states are no-kill states?

Delaware is the only fully no-kill state, while Vermont, Rhode Island, North Dakota, and New Hampshire have the smallest number of pets being euthanized. Texas, California, North Carolina, Florida, and Louisiana (and a number of other states) euthanize the most pets.

How long do animals stay in shelters before euthanized?

The length of time animals stay in shelters before being euthanized varies but can range from a few days to several weeks or months, depending on the shelter’s policies and the individual animal’s circumstances.

How long does the SPCA keep animals?

Each SPCA has its own policies regarding the length of time they keep shelter animals.

How many puppies come from puppy mills?

Puppy mills produce approximately 1.2 million puppies a year. The Humane Society estimates there are over 10,000 puppy mills in the US.

Are breeders regulated?

Breeders are subject to regulation, however, the Animal Welfare Act, which is the only federal law governing puppy mills, only requires that an animal be kept in a cage six inches longer than its body in any direction.

References

Animal Shelter Statistics

Update on the environmental and economic costs associated with alien-invasive species in the United States

Is Wildlife Going to the Dogs?

Managing disease threats to wild mammals

Pet Statistics | Shelter Intake and Surrender

Pet Overpopulation 

Pets by the numbers

Dog Population & Dog Sheltering Trends in the United States of America

Ending Pet Homelessness


Carmen Cheek is a graduate student at Miami University studying the impacts of dog overpopulation, a long-time pet sitter, and a kennel technician.

Separation Anxiety In Dogs: How To Stop Dog Barking When Left Alone?

Does your dog experience separation anxiety? Explore helpful techniques to comfort and entertain your dogs while they’re home alone.

woman comforts dog with separation anxiety
Samson Katt / Pexels
Separation anxiety in dogs takes many forms and has many different levels of intensity, but one of the most obvious signs is a dog crying, howling, barking, or otherwise vocalizing when left alone. Your canine crooner may not be hurting themself or anyone (or anything!) with this behavior, but unless you live in a soundproof studio or way out in the country, dogs howling can certainly cause problems with your neighbors. Also, it is a very audible communication from your dog to you, or whoever might be within earshot, that they’re unhappy.

Your dog may have felt abandoned before, and if they’re not well-balanced through training, routine, and exercise, losing their protector can feel unbearable. The good news is there are things you can try to reduce and eliminate separation anxiety when left alone.

What causes separation anxiety in dogs?

Separation anxiety occurs when a dog experiences fear or panic when left alone, either after a specific person leaves or if they’re totally alone. “Dogs are social creatures, they want to be with their people, and they do not want to be alone,” says dog trainer Julie Chang, PhD, CTC of The Life of Kai. “Sometimes, separation anxiety can be managed using different strategies. They can be taught to feel okay when being alone.”

Some newly adopted dogs may vocalize when they are first left alone as they are still getting used to their new home. Even dogs you’ve had for a while can be upset by changes in their routine, such as your work hours changing, a new roommate, etc., which can lead to separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety in dogs vs. just boredom — what’s the difference?

Dogs experiencing separation anxiety tend to exhibit more severe behaviors than dogs who are just bored or frustrated. Bored dogs may alternate between barking, sleeping, chewing, or becoming mischievous when their parent is away, but dogs experiencing separation anxiety will really freak out because they are overwhelmed by fear. “Frustrated or bored dogs are typically less persistent when expressing the behaviors whereas a fearful and anxious dog is not as logical; they can vocalize for hours,” says Chang.

Can puppies have separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is not just an adult thing. Puppies can get separation anxiety, too. “Bad early life experiences can create fear even in puppies. Many assume that puppies are too young to have bad experiences,” says Chang. “Remember that fear can derive from maternal experiences while [in the womb] or early bad experiences that happen with a litter if mom was unable to care for them, or they were hungry because mom was not healthy. We often see this with pregnant, reduced stray mamas.”

But not all puppies who chew on table legs or howl when you leave are experiencing separation anxiety. While it is true that puppies can develop separation anxiety, younger dogs are more likely to feel frustrated than anxious.

What are the symptoms of separation anxiety in dogs?

Common symptoms of anxiety in dogs include drooling, hiding, shaking, panting, excess energy, aggression, and destruction. Humans can also notice signs before they leave, including pacing, panting, pulling their ears back, following you around, hiding, or refusing food.

The most obvious sign — and one that can potentially be the most problematic for everyone involved — is crying or excessive barking when you leave. Dogs cry or whine for a number of reasons, but in this case, they’re generally expressing their uncertainty and anxiety.

How to train dogs with separation anxiety

You can help alleviate your dog’s separation anxiety with training, specifically through desensitization. When desensitizing a dog, the idea is to help your dog understand that nothing bad happens when they’re alone. When desensitizing your dog through training, go at your dog’s pace by doing short incremental training sessions. “It’s recommended that you work on home-alone training four to five times a week. The training starts with the duration the dog can be alone without stress,” says Chang. For some dogs, that duration is five seconds. For others, it might only be three — it is individual to the dog.

The length of the training program required to help them overcome their separation anxiety varies depending on the individual dog too. “The recommended training time is usually eight weeks. The goal is for the dog to be alone at least for 15 minutes, but for some dogs, eight weeks is not enough.”

Chang recommends investing in an indoor video camera before getting started. It will allow you to monitor your dog to ensure you return before they exhibit any non-audible feelings of anxiety, such as shadowing and pacing. Here’s a rough outline of how to get started:

1. Before training, find the starting point.

You’ll need to determine when your dog begins to freak out about the idea of you leaving. Do they panic when you grab your keys? When you crack the door? Can you go out the door for five seconds or only two? You get the idea. Other potential triggers include taking a shower, making coffee, and putting on shoes. Keep track of this information in a journal to record your dog’s progress.

2. Begin desensitizing your pup.

Work with your dog several times a week to help build their tolerance while also keeping them calm and comfortable. If your dog can remain calm while you walk up to your door, as long as you don’t touch it, then practice that. “If keys are a departure cue, we advise the pet parents to go ahead and put keys in their pocket hours before they know they have to leave. It’s just one less thing to desensitize,” says Chang. “Touching the doorknob, however, cannot be minimized. So we have them work on the doorknob and just pocket the keys.”

Work at your dog’s pace making only incremental adjustments. Eventually, you’ll work on touching but not turning the doorknob, and so forth. Keep it positive. Wait one to two minutes between each training session.

3. Build their alone-time tolerance.

As your dog gets better at handling your typical routine, mix it up. Try doing things in a different order or for different durations, but again, keep it positive. Here’s an example:

  1. Only go down the hallway to your front door or down the driveway, then come back.
  2. Then go down the hallway or block, wait five minutes, and come back.
  3. Then, actually leave.

Other Ways to Help Dogs With Separation Anxiety

Keep Greetings Calm

When you are getting ready to leave, gather up your things and leave as if you are coming right back. Skip hugs, kisses, or dramatic farewells. Don’t say “Goodbye, sweetie pie!” This just gives your dog a huge alert that you’re leaving.

Follow the same low-key routine when you return. This is the hardest for humans, but ignore any attention-seeking behavior, such as jumping or going crazy, and only reward your dog with calm love and affection when they are calm for at least five minutes after you’ve come home. You can take them outside immediately if they have to go potty but do so calmly without fanfare, as you’d do if you’d been home already.

Build a Support Network

For some dogs, being around others can help reduce their anxiousness. Doggie daycare can be a daily or occasional way for dogs who enjoy playing with other dogs to get lots of exercise and be happier and less anxious on days when their humans can’t be home with them.

“If pet parents have limited time, they can get the dog to daycare or build a small circle of friends and family to help watch the dog when they cannot,” says Chang. Daily dog walkers or sitters can also add just enough extra exercise and attention into your dog’s routine to alleviate crying when left alone.

Seek Professional Help

When it comes to addressing separation anxiety, positive reinforcement training is crucial. A certified trainer with appropriate credentials can teach you the tools to help your dog cope with separation anxiety. But because of the nature of separation anxiety, professional training can take a long time and be expensive. Expect to pay between $1500 and $2000 for a typical eight-week session. Some trainers, such as Julie Naismith and Malena DeMartini, offer an a la carte approach to separation anxiety training by providing pet parents the ability to connect with a separation anxiety specialist at an easier-to-swallow price.

Try Medications For Anxiety

If all else fails, you can visit your vet to discuss your dog’s behavior. There are a few medications for dogs with separation anxiety, such as Alprazolam or Clomicalm, that your vet can prescribe that may help either relieve anxiety or sedate your dog. For many dogs, medication and training go hand in hand.

“Sometimes medications have to be added to the regimen and may take at least two months to have an effect. During those months, [separation anxiety] training may need to be modified,” says Chang.

You can also try natural anxiety remedies, including experimenting with calming products like calming collars, shirts, and diffusers, but the efficacy of many of these products is anecdotal. Probiotic supplements, available through veterinarians, can also help dogs maintain positive cardiac activity during stressful events, promoting a positive emotional state. It may take up to six weeks to see results, so give yourself plenty of lead time.

What if none of this works?

What if you sought out a professional and it did not help, or you are unable to make the investment in helping your pup with their separation anxiety? If you’ve realized your dog’s anxiety is not improving or they are under a great deal of stress, rehoming your dog to a family that can better address these needs may be a very kind and responsible choice.

Rehome is a peer-to-peer adoption service that allows pet parents to post their pets on adoptapet.com to be seen by millions of potential adopters. If you’re in the difficult position of considering whether to rehome your dog, it’s important to take an honest look at the situation and do your homework. Rehome can help make the process easy and as safe as possible. When you’ve done all you can, it’s important to remember that pets are individuals, and sometimes your home might not be the right fit.

FAQs (People Also Ask)

How long can dogs be left alone?

Adult dogs can generally be left for four to six hours a day, while puppies between three and six months should not be left alone for longer than their age in months.

How can I help my dog stop crying when I leave?

If your dog is bored, playing the radio or TV, giving them food puzzles, and crate training may help. For dogs with separation anxiety, desensitization training can help reduce their fear and improve their behavior.

How long does it take for a dog to overcome separation anxiety?

Every dog is different, and with training and other methods of intervention, some dogs overcome their separation anxiety in weeks while others take months or even years.

What are some home remedies for separation anxiety in dogs?

The best home remedy for separation anxiety in dogs is training. Training your dog to be less fearful when alone can help reduce crying and problematic behaviors.

What is the fastest way to cure separation anxiety in dogs?

There is no fast way to cure separation anxiety in dogs. Every dog is different, and helping them overcome their fear takes time. Do not rush training, work at your dog’s individual pace.

Do dogs eventually get over separation anxiety?

With training and other methods of intervention, many dogs overcome separation anxiety, but they’ll need the help and guidance of someone they trust.

References:

Risk factors and behaviors associated with separation anxiety in dogs

Relationship between attachment to owners and separation anxiety in pet dogs (Canis lupus familiaris)

Evaluation of treatments for separation anxiety in dogs

Treatment of separation anxiety in dogs with clomipramine: results from a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, multicenter clinical trial

Canine separation anxiety: strategies for treatment and management

Separation Anxiety and Dog Boredom

Pet Adoption Checklist: 10 Things To Consider Before Adopting A Pet

It’s a big decision, so check these boxes before you sign on the dotted line.

By Jodi Helmer

woman comforts newly adopted pet
So this is it: you’re ready to adopt. Or are you? Adopting a pet is a long-term commitment; you’ll be responsible for another life, and you have to be ready to take on whatever that entails. Before filling out that adoption paperwork, be sure you’ve thought through all the variables. Here are ten things to consider before adopting a pet.

What to expect when adopting a new pet

Pet parenthood will inevitably alter your life, and you’re probably wondering how to prepare for a dog, cat, or other pet to change your lifestyle. Here are some changes you can expect:

  • Routine: Instead of hitting the snooze button (again), you’ll need to hop out of bed and walk the dog, dish out breakfast, and/or scoop out the litter box — and then head straight home from work to serve dinner, manage potty breaks, and offer snuggles to dogs and cats who have spent the last eight hours waiting for you.
  • Lifestyle: If you rent, you’ll need to make sure your landlord allows pets — and will have to ensure that’s the case for any future rentals throughout your pet’s life as well.

“This is a big decision and a 16-plus-year commitment,” says Julie Sinaw, president and founder of Animal Lighthouse Rescue in New York City. “Make sure you’re ready for that commitment. Adopting a pet is a lot of work, as well as a large financial and time commitment. If you are ready for a commitment, there is no greater love than that of a cat or dog.”

Where can I adopt a pet?

You can use Adopt a Pet’s Find a Pet search tool to see adoptable pets near you. You can also check your local shelter or rescue organizations’ websites.

What types of pets are available for adoption?

Many types of pets are available for adoption. While the most commonly adopted pets are cats and dogs, a number of shelters often have other pets available.

There are also many rescue organizations that specialize in rehabilitating and adopting out other animals, such as farm animals and exotic pets.

What are the benefits of adopting from a shelter or rescue organization?

There are so many benefits of adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organization, but the first and foremost is that adopting saves lives. There are already so many pets out there in need of homes and who may be euthanized — or otherwise kept in less-than-ideal conditions in rescue for far too long — and by adopting them, you’re giving them a chance at a happy life. Adoption fees are also generally far less than the fees breeders charge, so adoption is more affordable. There are even sustainability reasons to adopt from a shelter. The list goes on.

What should I consider before adopting a pet?

Knowing what to expect before adopting a pet can help make the transition to pet parenthood as smooth as possible. Here are ten things you need to consider before you bring a dog, cat, or other pet into your home.

1. Do you have permission from the landlord?

If you’re renting, you’ll want to get permission from your landlord to bring a pet into your home in advance. It’s also important to note that even pet-friendly rentals may have species, weight, or even breed restrictions. Also, consider the length of your lease and if you plan on sticking around for a while; if you move, you’ll need to ensure your next home accepts your pet, too.

2. You may need to adjust your schedule.

“Different pets require different amounts of time and effort, but all pets need regular care and company,” says Holly Sizemore, Chief Mission Officer for Best Friends Animal Society.

If you want every member of the household to participate in pet care, Ruth Allen, director of admissions and matchmaking at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) Adoption Center, adds, “It’s a good idea to draw up a schedule of who in the family will help with the care of your new pet, including playing, feeding, grooming and walking.”

3. You’ll never poop alone.

Your four-legged friend sleeps on the bed, watches your favorite shows, and keeps you company while you cook dinner — so don’t be surprised if they’re all up in your business while you’re doing your business. Go ahead and close the door, but they might scratch and whine. Or invite them to curl up at your feet. Who needs privacy, anyway?

4. Pets can be expensive.

You’ll need to budget for food, vet care, grooming, boarding, pet sitters, and other costs associated with having a pet. Adopting from a shelter, however, can help keep costs in check, according to Sizemore.

“Pets for adoption from shelters and rescue groups are usually already spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped — services that can cost hundreds of dollars,” she adds. “When you adopt a pet, you not only save a life; you save a lot of money.”

Getting pet insurance or establishing a savings account will help with unexpected costs, but “it’s vital to consider the upfront costs when thinking about adding a new pet to your household, as well as the long-term financial obligations,” Allen says.

5. Don’t adopt a pet on a whim

While it can be tempting to adopt a pet because you feel it’s love at first sight, take a few days to consider. You need to make a real commitment to care for your pet for their entire life — which can be up to 20 years or more. Take the time to prepare your home, plan, get your finances in order, and make sure that you are fully prepared to commit to your pet.

6. There’s an ick factor.

Ask any pet owner: Poop happens. Vomit, too. Whether you’re scooping a litter box, picking up on a walk, or (oops) cleaning up an accident, it’s important to feel comfortable with all the bodily fluids your adorable companion produces. “Most people can get into a routine to clean up pet hair and all the other things that come out of dogs and cats and focus on all the wonderful benefits of having pets,” Sizemore says. “It makes the cleanup worthwhile.”

7. Plan on pet hair everywhere.

Keep the lint roller handy. Your favorite sweater and the shirt you plan to wear to work will inevitably be covered in hair — even if you have a non-shedding dog. Do a quick once over with a lint roller or wear a T-shirt that declares “dog hair is glitter” and embrace it.

8. Older animals make great companions.

Puppies and kittens get a lot of attention at shelters, but don’t overlook older animals. Sizemore notes that senior pets are as loving and loyal as their younger counterparts and are often easier to care for because they’ve outgrown puppy-like behaviors such as teething or potty accidents.

“A great benefit to adopting an adult pet is that you know exactly what you’re getting,” says Allen. “Their size, weight, and personality are already developed, so you can choose them for what they are rather than for what you hope they’ll be when they grow up. When it comes to choosing the right animal to adopt, prospective adopters should keep an open mind [and] ask questions.”

9. Socialization matters.

You might be your dog’s BFF, but he needs other friends, too. “Dogs need training and socialization to learn how to be healthy and happy members of the family, and that responsibility falls to you,” Sizemore says.  Look for options like group obedience classes, take dogs on outings to the park or dog-friendly shops and restaurants, and introduce them to new people (and other dogs) to ensure your dog is calm and well-adjusted.

10. Make your home pet-friendly.

Before adopting a pet, make any necessary modifications to your home, yard, and fence (if you have one) to provide for your pet’s safety. Securing furniture, locking away cleaning supplies, fixing screens and doors — there is plenty to do to pet-proof your home.

Once you’re ready to adopt use the Find a Pet search to see adoptable pets near you. If you don’t see your perfect match, sign up for Pet Alerts so new matching kitties will be emailed to you daily.

FAQs (People Also Ask):

Why should I consider adopting a pet instead of buying one?

You should adopt a pet instead of buying one because many pets need homes and may be euthanized or kept in rescue for far too long. Adopting a pet gives them a chance at a happy life or could even save their life.

What are the essential factors to consider before adopting a pet?

A pet’s cost over their lifetime and the way having a pet will change your schedule and how you spend your time are essential factors to consider before adoption.

Where can I adopt a pet?

You can use Adopt a Pet’s Find a Pet search tool to see adoptable pets near you.

What types of pets are available for adoption?

While cats and dogs are the most commonly adopted pets, some shelters often have other pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, and birds, available for adoption.

What are the benefits of adopting from a shelter or rescue organization?

Adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organization doesn’t just save the life of the pet you rescue, but makes space for them to save another life.

How do I ensure a successful adoption experience?

Think through all the variables involved with the transition to pet parenthood and make sure you’re equipped to care for a pet for the rest of their life.


Jodi Helmer is a North Carolina-based freelance writer who shares her home with an embarrassing number of rescue dogs and relies on four feral cats to patrol the barn. When she isn’t refilling food and water dishes, Jodi writes about animals for Scientific AmericanSierraWebMDAKC Family DogLiving the Country Life, and Out Here.

Pet Adoption: Adopting Older Vs Younger Pets – Risks and Benefits

Considering pet adoption? Explore the pros and cons of adopting an adult pet versus a young one to find your perfect match.

Age isn’t always just a number.

By Tim Barribeau

older cat and kitten
Melanie DeFazio / Stocksy
If you’re looking to adopt a pet, it can be hard to ignore the incomparable cuteness of a puppy or kitten when deciding who to take home. But the process of figuring out which animal to adopt comes down to more than just losing yourself in that fresh puppy smell or tiny kitten beans — sometimes a grown-up pet might suit you and your lifestyle better. Plus, adults and senior pets often need homes more urgently than than puppies and kittens do. So, how do you tell which is right for you?

Adopt a puppy or kitten if:

You have the time and energy for training.

Probably the biggest and most intensive part of adopting a young animal is that you will need to be involved in their training. This is more of a thing with dogs than with cats (who hopefully will be at least litter box trained coming home), and a big part of your initial relationship with a young pet will be training them to be well-behaved members of your family. For dogs in particular, that means housebreaking; basic commands (sit, stay, heel); leash training; and socialization with other people and animals. For cats, when they’re young is the best time to train them to accept being handled by humans, especially in their sensitive spots like stomachs and feet, and in what types of play are appropriate so that they don’t think that mauling your hand is good fun.

You don’t mind cleaning.

Let’s be honest: You’re going to be cleaning up after your pet a lot over the years, and it starts at full speed with a puppy or kitten. Even if you’re well on your way to a housebroken or litter-trained animal, sometimes a small critter just can’t make it to where they need to do their business in time. Combine that with younger animals often having more sensitive stomachs (which can mean the occasional vomit or diarrhea cleanup) and you should be prepared with a stash of cleaning supplies on hand. Luckily this (usually) settles down over time.

You’re at home more often.

Young animals need more consistent care and attention. Especially if you’re fostering baby animals, but even for the first year or two of life, a puppy or kitten needs to be around people frequently. Part of this is just managing their needs so that a puppy can be taken out as often as they need to go to the bathroom, but part of it is also socialization and enrichment. The more time they spend playing with people as young animals, the more comfortable they are around people as grown pets — and a tired and well-entertained animal is less destructive than a bored one. As Dilara Göksel Parry, certified cat behavior consultant at Feline Minds and Cat Town Oakland’s Program Manager explains, kittens are “go, go, go nonstop play,” and they need a commensurate level of attention.

You want to get ahead of vet fees.

Pet insurance is an important investment in the wellbeing of your animal. It can mean the difference between spending tens of thousands on an important procedure or just a couple of hundred on a deductible. Getting your pet on pet insurance when they’re young means you can get them in the system before they get penalized for “pre-existing conditions” and make sure they’re covered from the start.

You don’t mind bite marks.

Teething means chewed-up shoes, power cables, table legs, toes…doesn’t matter if it’s a cat or a dog; those tiny needle teeth are going to be gnawing on something, no matter how many chew toys you put in front of them. Do your best to manage it with bitter spray, but also be aware that it’s mostly unavoidable.

Adopt an adult animal if:

You want a (mostly) trained animal.

Most adult animals will come to you with at least some level of training. Dogs will probably be housebroken (and might know some basic commands) and cats will be litter-box trained. There will be some outliers in this regard, but chances are you can rely on them knowing the basics. You may end up wanting to augment their training further, but having an animal who knows when they need to be let out is a huge help.

You want an animal with a known personality.

As Parry explains, if you want an animal who’s going to match a certain type of behavior, go with an older one. “The most common behavior adopters want is lap cat. If you want a lap cat, get an adult who’s already demonstrating that behavior for you,” she says. “A lot of people think ‘I can mold the kitten the way I want’ — they think this about puppies, too. And that’s just actually not really what happens. We can certainly encourage them to do behaviors we like and we can train them. But temperament-wise, there’s so much there we’re not in control of.”

You want to skip the fees.

In order to help adults go to loving homes, many adoption agencies will lower or waive the fees associated with older animals. This can often mean hundreds of dollars in savings from the get-go for an animal who is already microchipped, spayed or neutered, and up to date on all their shots. In the grand scheme of the life of a pet, this may not end up being a huge difference, but when you’re first getting your home set up with everything you need, it’s pretty significant.

You want to support animals who might not be able to find a home.

It’s harder to find homes that are willing to take adult (and even more so senior) pets. They can end up in adoption centers for any number of reasons, but they deserve a loving home just as much as any puppy or kitten. If you want to help an animal who may otherwise be passed over for adoption, bringing home an adult animal is definitely a way to do so. And they’ll provide you with just as much companionship and love as a baby.

You work longer hours.

Adult animals don’t need the frequent hands-on care the way that extremely young ones do. Adult cats are generally fine left to their own devices during an entire workday (they’ll probably just find a warm spot and sleep until late afternoon anyway), and an adult dog may only need to be briefly let out or walked during the course of a day. If you already have a schedule that you want to try and stick to, an adult animal may be the way to go.

You want a quieter household.

Pets tend to mellow out as they age. Where a puppy or a kitten might tear around the house at all hours, hurling themselves at anything they think will give them even a moment’s entertainment, an adult pet will probably be a lot happier to just flop in a comfy spot for much of the day. That’s not to say that a grown cat won’t decide at 3am to have a bad case of the zoomies, or that your adult dog won’t bark its head off at a squirrel that goes past the window — quieter isn’t the same as quiet.

Adopting a pet is one of the most rewarding things you can do and brings so much enrichment to a household. Deciding between taking home a puppy or a kitten vs an adult is a big decision and can significantly change your day-to-day care of the animal. One isn’t better than the other; they just need different things and suit different people — so be sure to weigh your potential pet’s needs to figure out which makes the most sense for you.


Tim Barribeau is a freelance writer, editor, cat dad, and “help your boyfriend buy a suit that actually fits for once” consultant. He was previously the Style and Pets editor at Wirecutter, and has bylines at a bunch of publications that don’t exist anymore (and a couple that still do).

What Cats Get Adopted Less? Learn How You Can Help

Did you know that some cats are adopted less than others? Learn about how you can help cats that have trouble finding new homes.

Considering adopting a cat? Here’s why bonded kitties, senior cats, and felines with FIV make just as amazing pets as any other.

By Madeleine Aggeler

bonded pair of cats snuggling
Narucha Klinudom / Shutterstock
“Adopt a Less-Adoptable Pet” week is an event held the third week of September every year to celebrate those animals who are often considered harder to adopt out. Bonded pairs, senior cats, and cats with health issues are often considered “less adoptable.” Raising awareness about the unique joys and rewards of these so-called “less adoptable” animals is important not just for individuals who may be debating whether to welcome one into their home, but also for shelters and rescues that sometimes don’t give these animals as much of a chance as others because they don’t believe people want to adopt them. This is a misconception that Kristen Hassen, the Director of American Pets Alive! and Human Animal Support Services, says she and her organizations have been fighting against for years.

“At the heart of all the work we do is this belief that people do want the opportunity to help out an animal who’s had a hard life, a trauma history, or has special physical needs,” says Hassen.” We have to start embracing that instead of making the decision for the public about what they may or may not want.” Below are some of the kinds of cats who may be considered difficult to adopt out, but who, like any animal, can thrive in the right home.

Cats in Bonded Pairs

What are Bonded Pairs?

Two cats who were raised together or lived together for many years can often become what is called a “bonded pair.” The pair will spend most of their time together, and often run to each other’s side when the other is in distress. When a bonded pair arrives at a shelter or rescue, the staff will often try to re-home them together, a measure that is necessary not just for their emotional health, but also their physical health.

“Separating a truly bonded pair is heartbreaking,” says Hassen, who adds that with cats in particular, separating a bonded pair can be life threatening. “I’ve seen on more than one occasion two cats that were bonded actually die when they were separated.”

Benefits on Bonded Pairs

For adopters who aren’t sure whether they’re ready to welcome twice as many cats into their home as they had been planning on, consider the benefits: bonded pairs will be able to keep each other company when you’re gone, and they’ll likely adjust to their new home more quickly since they have each other. Plus, you’ll be able to save twice as many animals as you had been planning on.

At the end of the day, Hassen says, every animal ends up being a special needs pet in one way or another. “They have special needs because they’re all individuals. What we want people to do is, when they do look for their next pet, consider all of those animals that are waiting for a person just like them, and who want to be seen, and are often not seen in the midst of all the puppy and kitten adorableness.”

Senior Cats

Oftentimes, kittens are scooped up from shelters quickly. Not only are the tiny balls of fur impossibly charming, adopters sometimes worry that they’ll have less time with an older cat, or that an older cat will soon develop health issues, and they’ll rack up sizable medical bills. But senior cats are a great option for people who may want a more mellow, low-maintenance companion. Senior cats often already know how to use the litter box, are socialized with people and other pets, and are generally less hyper than a tiny kitten.

What’s more, for those concerned that they may enjoy less time with their senior cat because of its age, consider that cats typically have fairly long life expectancies. Plus, any animal you bring into your life will eventually require some medical care. No matter what cat you adopt, pet insurance is a great option to offset some of those potential costs.

Cats with Chronic Health Issues

Although some adopters may be concerned about the time, money, and effort that goes into caring for a cat with chronic health issues — like mobility issues, missing limbs, or a condition that requires regular medical care — Hassen underscores that special-needs pets are just like any other pets. Special needs pets, she says, adapt to their environment and adapt to their family. “The fear is a lot greater than the reality,” Hassen says. “The vast majority of people who take home a pet with special needs are glad that they did.”

One condition unique to cats is the feline immunodeficiency virus, also known as FIV. It is primarily transmitted through bite wounds, so as long as they are kept safe and mostly inside, FIV positive cats can go symptom free for years, and live long and healthy lives.

If you’re ready to adopt a less-adoptable cat, start your search.


Madeleine Aggeler is a freelance journalist and copywriter in Washington, D.C. Previously, she was a writer at New York magazine’s The Cut. She lives with her dog, Cleo, who works primarily as a foot warmer.