A homeless cat can make an excellent pet for someone.
If you find a cat around your neighborhood that is stray, then you have the option of taking it directly to an animal shelter. However, you also have the option of keeping the cat for the time being and finding a home for it yourself. That way, you can screen potential owners and make sure the cat is not put down by a shelter. Before you try to find a home for the cat, you should check around your neighborhood and perhaps put up posters to make sure the cat does not already belong to someone.
Instructions
1. Get the homeless cat checked out by a veterinarian. The vet will check for contagious diseases and make sure the cat is in overall good health. Also, get the cat spayed or neutered if it is not already.
2. Set a fee for the homeless cat, such as reimbursing you for initial vet costs. This is a good way to screen potential adopters. If a person cannot afford or is unwilling to pay a small fee, then they are probably not the best choice to adopt the homeless cat.
3. Talk to your local animal shelters. Some shelters are willing to help you screen potential adopters. Staff members are generally trained in looking for warning signs during the interview process.
4. Advertise the homeless cat. Flyers are a free advertising method. You can also take out a local newspaper ad. Include a picture when possible, a description of the cat's personality, and your contact information. Don't forget to include that there will be a small fee for adoption.
5. Talk to the potential adopters on the phone for an initial screening. Then, schedule an in person interview where they can meet the cat. The adopter should always be an adult with a veterinarian already lined up. Make sure the cat will belong to the person you're speaking with, and that there home and living situation is adequate for a cat. If you have doubts, ask your local animal shelter for tips on interviewing potential adopters.
6. Visit the potential adopter's home. Make sure it is clean and sanitary. If they rent, double check to be sure their lease allows pets.
7. Ask the adopter to sign a contract. Once you choose a home for the cat, make a simple contract that states you are releasing the cat to their care and that they agree to return the cat to you if things do not work out. Also, add that the adopter is paying a pet fee. Both parties should sign the contract and receive a copy. Over the next several months, call the adopters periodically to make sure things are working out.
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