Jackson Heights Life

Adopting an older cat has pros and cons.  On the upside you will know its temperment and they are not as active.  But older cats can, but not always, need more vet care.  I work with a rescuer who's name is Sandra and if you would like more detailed information about cat adoption and ownership please call her at 718 204 7339.  If you adopt from her, she will always take them back should it not work out and her rescues are vet checked and healthy.  Good luck and thanks for adopting.

All of my cats have been adopted as kittens (two were only 5 weeks old and the other was about 6 months at adoption). I would say that the 6 month old was a model of his true personality and would therefore recommend this age for adoption. You need to understand what you are looking for - playful, friendly, lap-cat, etc.

I am unsure if you can get an "older" cat to adapt to your home and wishes. This is something to research also. You definitely would want a cat that is not too independent and would not interact with you. You really need to think about what you want.

I have one cat who likes to be played with for a few moments and then runs off. She will "talk" to me at times. However, there are definitely times when she doesn't want to be bothered with and will even get angry at me. She is also not great with visitors. She thinks she is the boss of who can come in and visit.

While, my other cat (the one who recently passed away) loved company - even delivery people. He wanted to be rubbed and petted. He would lie down next to me to watch TV and then nap. He was so sweet and even "bumped heads" (it's a greeting and sort of hug). Sometimes, he would get under my blanket at night and sleep with me. He was a real lap cat with me and friends. (We really miss him).

Cats are wonderful. Think about what you want and go for it. My way is to visit with many places looking for a pet to adopt (or the same place over and over again) until I find the one who steals my heart .

Good luck.

Long-haired cats need grooming, while short-hair cats do not.

For my cat, I buy Eagle Pack Holistic Select Anchovy cat food, which is available online. Here is a website where you can find reviews of cat food

http://www.consumersearch.com/cat-food/reviews

You should try NYC Animal Care and Control for adoption. They are located in Brooklyn. They have many older cats. Here is their website

http://www.nycacc.org

Dear Mike,

As a person rapidly approaching "seniorhood" myself, I have adopted senior cats  and I highly recommend it.   I spearheaded an event called "Seniors for Seniors" , sponsored by a rescue organization called Kitty Kind, that always has many wonderful felines available for adoption at Petco, Union Square.   They have  a few "adoption counselors" who will match you with the perfect kitty.   Cats older than 5 years are already considered "unadoptable" by many shelters and since many cats live to be at least 15-20 years. with a bit of luck and good care  these lovely "unadoptables"  have many more good years in their lives.  I even adopted a 16 year-old boy-cat, who was truly the sweetest creature I ever met.

I agree that, depending upon their age, they may have more veterinary expenses than a youngster but, if your cat does not go outdoors, I do not recommend vaccinating, which is mostly what Vets do when they see an animal regularly.  It is unnecessary and even detrimental to their health.

I would be happy to discuss healthy diet or any other issues that may come up.    Good luck in choosing a companion.  You will not regret it.

Madalyn

I think it's extremely admirable to look into adopting an older cat.  As someone mentioned above, many are considered unadoptable, but are wonderful and loving pets.

Mike V,
I was so happy to read about your wish to adopt an adult cat. I adopted an adult cat from North Shore Animal League 3 years ago and she has changed my life!

I'm bothered by the attitude that you can return your cat to the shelter if your personalities don't match. For several months I didn't get along with my cat, Congee. I had grown up with an extremely affectionate cat who would follow me around the neighborhood as I was dogwalking. I could also hold her for long periods of time without her getting antsy. Congee, my new adopted cat, was so different that it drove it crazy. (My partner tells me Congee was just being a cat.)

I put up with her (or, she put up with me) and now I can't imagine my life without her. Thank god I didn't let her go just because we didn't get along for the first few months. It seems wrong to take on a new member of the family into your home, then to kick her out.

As for food, the best food is not canned or packaged but food *you* make. If you're inclined & have the time, look up some of the recipes. I buy canned but know it's not the best nutrition for Congee.

Please do let us know once you adopt about your cat how you're doing!

Maybe your fiance should be given up for adoption.