Each year, roughly 3.2 million cats enter an animal shelter in the United States, according to the ASPCA. When these cats are adopted, sometimes their new homes aren't forever homes, and people end up returning a cat to a shelter.
The reasons for this vary. An older adopted cat may not be the best fit for a household with energetic young children. A first-time cat adopter may not understand how to help a new pet adjust. If you're considering adopting a cat, take some time to learn the most common reasons for returning a cat to the shelter to set up the best possible situation for you and your potential new companion.
Inappropriate Urination
Missing the litter box is often the top reason for returning a cat to a shelter. Solving this behavior depends on the cause. Cats use the scent of urine to calm themselves and mark their territory, explains the ASPCA, so it makes sense that the stress of a new home prompts some hit-or-miss potty behaviors. Some cats adopted from a life outdoors might not understand what you expect. Elimination also serves as a barometer of feline health. A cat experiencing a sudden change in bathroom habits may be sick and definitely requires a veterinary check.
To avoid returning a cat to a shelter and instead foster good litter box habits, limit a new cat's access to a single room for the first week or so. Make it easy for the cat to find the litter box. Make sure you offer large boxes that a cat can easily use without hanging out or over-shooting the edge. Some cats want one box for liquids and another for solids, so more than one box works best.
Most cats prefer uncovered boxes that don't hold odors, and they'll avoid a stinky, dirty box. Clean it daily! Cats also tend to prefer a fine, sandy litter to dig and may protest with out-of-the-box thinking if you try to switch brands. For former outdoor cats, help them understand what's expected by sprinkling soil on top of the litter to help transition them to an indoor lifestyle.
Scratching
All cats, especially a newly adopted cat, need to scratch. Cats scratch to file their claws, mark their territory, stretch their bodies and relieve stress. It's not unheard of for cats to scratch furniture, walls and other inappropriate places. Because of this, many new pet parents find themselves returning a cat to a shelter to save their belongings.
Plan for this normal behavior. Cats tell you what they prefer, from vertical upholstery surfaces to horizontal wood or carpet. Cats also have preferred scratch locations. They want their scratch graffiti seen, so locate the scratch object in an attractive spot. Prime locations include near a window, pathway, door or other important cat territories, like the food bowl. Scent the scratch surfaces with catnip and lure your pet to scratch with feather toys.
Make illegal scratch targets unattractive by applying double-sided sticky tape to furniture while locating the legal scratch post nearby until the cat learns the new rules. Inappropriate scratching usually resolves itself if you provide better, more appropriate scratch options. You can even create your own scratching post for your adopted cat.
Tasty Tips
Health Issues
New pet parents often want to adopt a healthy animal. Not only are sick or injured cats tough to care for, but veterinary bills are an expense many people aren't ready to afford.
Understand the financial responsibilities of getting a cat before ever going to a shelter. Ask whether your new cat has been spayed/neutered, whether they're up to date on vaccinations and what other issues to expect to help prevent unexpected financial surprises. You can also consider pet insurance or starting a savings account a few months or years before welcoming a new pet into your family. That way, you won't have to consider returning a cat to a shelter for financial reasons.
Getting Along With Children and Other Pets
Many families want an adopted cat that gets along well with children and other pets. Shelters observe a cat's temperament prior to adoption, but stress and the artificial environment of a shelter make it hard to get an accurate assessment of a kitty's personality. Look for cats with a history of living with other animals or people. The important personality characteristics to consider often depend on who's in your household, such as large dogs or small children. Patience is key. Cats can take weeks to adjust to new people, places and pets.
Many cats also won't want to meet anyone new until they feel safe in their environment. Let your cat decompress in one room, away from kids and pets, for at least a week. That gives the cat a familiar, safe retreat while meeting other pets with sniffs and paw pats under the door. Next, give the new cat a chance to check out the rest of the house while other pets and kids are elsewhere. Once they're introduced to all the best hiding spots and perches, cats become more willing to meet new family members.
An adopted cat wants to control their interactions. Strangers might scare them. Ask kids, partners and visitors to sit on the ground and pretend to ignore the cat. Let the new pet approach — or not. Avoid touching the cat until they approach on their own and ask for pets by gently headbutting. Scent rules your cat's life, and these cheek rubs mark furniture and your ankles as safe. Not all cats enjoy lap-sitting, but they share safe-smelling scents by grooming each other and rubbing against those they trust. It takes time, but that headbutt on your shin is a sure sign your new cat accepts you as a trusted friend.
Housing Restrictions
Cats may be returned to shelters because of changes or misunderstandings in apartment pet restrictions. If you rent or are relocating to a new property, check with your landlord about having a cat. If you know their pet policy ahead of time, it will help you decide if it's the right new home for you and a future cat. That way, you avoid the heartbreak of returning a cat to a shelter because you misunderstood the rules.
There are other reasons people return cats to shelters, but these are the most common ones. A little research and patience can go a long way when making your home comfortable for your new cat. If they struggle to adapt, don't rush back to the shelter right away. Patience and time to let your cat adjust will go a long way. With the chance to be happy and comfortable, you might find your new kitty is well on their way to being the perfect companion.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Salmon, Brown Rice, and Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Fewer calories for less active cats
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system.ain, eye & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Tuna Dinner
Carefully made, gourmet daily nutrition. Tasty chunks with Salmon & Tuna in a decadent gravy. Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Beef Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of gourmet savory beef to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Liver & Chicken Entrée
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced liver & chicken to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for cats age 7+
null Hill's Science Diet Kitten with Salmon
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced salmon to help build immunity and a healthy digestive system
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender tuna smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Cat Food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful fur for adult cats
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight Salmon & Vegetable Canned Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Hairball Control cat food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Tender Dinner Pouch Variety Pack Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Tender Chicken Dinner
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Liver & Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Dinners Can Variety Pack Cat Food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Delicious taste of gourmet chicken in precisely balanced nutrition. Provide a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity level.
Related articles
Your Cat's First Month At Home: Tips & Suggestions
Learn more about the basics of cat care in the first month, including choosing the right cat bedding, cat toys, cat carriers, pet id tags and litter boxes.
Interactive Cat Toys
Discover fun, interactive cat toys that will entertain your kitty, including puzzles and other cat toys that dispense food!
Keeping Your Cat's Mouth Healthy
Learn how to brush your cat's teeth vs. having a professional cleaning done, as well as common signs that she might have an oral health problem.
Just How Smart Are Cats?
Know the importance of understanding a cat's intelligence, mysterious and compelling nature, and cognitive abilities for building a lasting bond with your pet.
Reasons Why Your Cat is Throwing Up After Eating
Reasons Why Your Cat is Throwing Up After Eating
How Much Should I Feed My Adult Cat?
Learn about the importance of feeding your adult cat the right amount of food at proper times, and find out what feeding method is best for your cat.
Allergic Dermatitis & Skin Conditions in Cats: Causes & Treatments
Discover some of the signs of feline skin conditions, how to help improve them, and when to consult your veterinarian about your cat's skin health.
Why Do Cats Like Cardboard Boxes?
Learn the quirky reasons why cats like cardboard boxes, such as shelter and stress relief, as well as why they often prefer a box over their carrier.
Deciding if a Natural Food is Best for Your Cat
Understand what natural cat food really means and how to pick a high quality natural cat food for your furry friend.
My Cat Won't Eat: What You Can Do to Help
Does your kitty's lack of appetite have you asking, "Why won't my cat eat?" Learn reasons why she may be snubbing her food and tips for getting her to eat.
Understanding the Basics of How to Build a Catio | Hill's Pet
Want to learn how to build a catio? Get started with DIY cat enclosure basics, including what to consider and how a catio can benefit your cat.
PU Surgery in Cats: What You Need to Know
Learn important information about a perineal urethrostomy, or PU surgery in cats, including reasons the procedure & how it helps with urinary blockages.
Antifreeze Poisoning in Cats & What to Do If Your Cat Drank It
Learn about antifreeze and cats: what to do if your cat drank antifreeze, symptoms of antifreeze poisoning to watch for, treatment and prevention.
How to Make DIY Cat Shelves
Creating DIY cat shelves gives your cat a place to play and relax that isn't your dining table! Here's how to make them attractive and functional.
Kitten Proofing Your Home with 10 Easy-to-Follow Tips
Learn more about household items can potentially be harmful to kittens and other ways to keep your kitten safe at home.
Are Cats Protective of Their Humans?
Dogs are well-known for their loyalty, but are cats protective too? Learn whether cats defend their people and how to deal with an overprotective kitty.
Suggestions to Make Your Cat Drink from a Bowl
If your cat refuses to drink from her water dish, or sees it more of a toy, learn some different ways you can encourage your cat to drink from a bowl.
Cat & Kitten Swollen Belly: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Learn the many causes that can give your cat or kitten a swollen belly, from organ-related issues to simple gas, how it's diagnosed and treatment options.
Tips & Resources for Feeding Your Cat
Learn how cat's naturally feed and ways you can help meet their nutritional needs without disrupting their feeding behavior.
Do Cats Have Periods?
Learn more about cat periods, when you can expect them, and what kind of impact your cat's heat cycle has on her body.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.