Available Cats

Does anyone have allergies or health conditions that could be affected by cat dander? Do you have other pets and have they had experiences with cats—good or bad? Do you have a closed-off space in your home where the new cat can adjust to its new surroundings?

Scratching is normal cat behavior. Cats scratch to remove the dead husks from their claws, mark territory, and stretch their muscles. Declawing a cat is the removal of the last bone of each toe. Think in terms of having the last knuckle of each of your fingers removed. If you adopt a cat, provide it with a scratching post and be ready to work out any scratching issues that come up. Declawing is not a solution. Click here to read more about the downsides of declawing.

The whole family should be involved in choosing the new cat, but an adult needs to be the one who makes sure the right cat is chosen for the family and is properly cared for. Feeding and litter patrol is a daily chore and the cat’s health depends on it. Involving children in the care is a great opportunity for them to learn responsibility,  but they can not be expected to do everything. Also, remember the kids will grow up and leave, but the cat will still be with you.

Money
To adopt a shelter cat at the Steamboat Springs Animal Shelter (a City of Steamboat Springs facility) is only $80. This seems pretty inexpensive, however, there are many other costs with adopting a cat. Annual vaccinations, good quality food, litter pan and litter, toys, and a scratching post are necessities. And, don’t forget about veterinary emergencies. These can cost hundreds of dollars. Urinary infections are common with cats. As they age, they can also be more inclined to have heart, respiratory, or kidney issues.

Time and Energy
If you decide on a kitten, realize that they have three times the energy of an adult cat. You will also need to spend more time socializing them so they will become friendly, well-adjusted members of the household.

• General Cat Care 
• Cat Nutrition 
• Cat Grooming Tips 
• Cats and Babies 
• Common Cat Diseases 
• Aggression Between Cats in Your Household 
• Aggression in Cats 
• Destructive Scratching 
• Litter Box Problems 
• Meowing and Yowling 
• Older Cats with Behavior Problems 
• Urine Marking in Cats 
• A Closer Look at Community Cats 

  Routt County Humane Society will be making TNR training available for anyone who is interested!

• Position Statement on Feral Cats 

  Routt County Humane Society’s position on feral/community cats mirrors that of the ASPCA, HSUS and other major animal-welfare organizations. We will be making TNR training and responsible colony caretaking education available to anyone who is interested!