June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, a nationwide initiative that shines a light on the thousands of cats and kittens in shelters awaiting loving homes. As the weather warms up, so does “kitten season,” leading to an influx of young and adult cats in need. Whether you’re considering adoption, preparing to welcome a feline friend, or simply looking to support animal welfare, there are meaningful steps you can take to make a lasting impact.
Let’s take a closer look at how to successfully prepare your home for a cat, ensure a smooth introduction, and offer support even if you’re not in a position to adopt.
1. Preparing Your Home for a Cat
Welcoming a cat into your home requires thoughtful preparation. Cats are sensitive to new environments, so a little planning goes a long way toward helping them settle in safely and comfortably. It can take time for a new cat to learn household routines and adjust to their new home.
Create a Safe Space
Your new cat will feel more secure if they have a quiet, private area to call their own for the first few days or weeks.
- Choose a small, enclosed room—like a guest bedroom or bathroom—away from noise and activity.
- Provide all the essentials: food and water dishes, a litter box, bedding, and a scratching post.
- Avoid overwhelming your cat with too much space initially; this controlled environment helps them acclimate and reduces stress.
Kitty Essentials Checklist
Before your new pet arrives, stock up on the supplies they’ll need:
- Food and Water Bowls: Use non-plastic materials like stainless steel or ceramic to prevent bacterial buildup and allergic reactions.
- Quality Cat Food: Ask the shelter about the brand and type your cat is currently eating to ease the transition. Gradually introduce any new foods to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
- Litter Box and Litter: One litter box per cat, plus one extra, is ideal. We generally prefer unscented clumping litter.
- Scratching Posts and Toys: These provide physical and mental stimulation and help deter unwanted scratching on furniture. We recommend toys that encourage play with humans safely, like wand-type toys.
- Cat Carrier: A sturdy, well-ventilated carrier is essential for safe transportation to and from the vet or other destinations. Carriers that have an opening on the top or side are preferred.
- Hiding Spots: Cats often feel secure when they can hide. Cardboard boxes, cat caves, or covered beds help them feel safe.
Pet-Proof Your Home
Cats are curious and agile—safety proofing is a must.
- Remove Hazardous Items: Store away medications, cleaning products, household items, and human food that can be toxic to cats. This includes onions, garlic, chocolate, and many houseplants (particularly lilies).
- Secure Window Screens: Make sure your window screens are secure if you open your windows and you’re planning to keep your cat indoors.
Tidy Cords and Small Objects: Tie up dangling cords and keep small items off the floor to prevent chewing or swallowing. Store crafting supplies like string, yarn, needles, and ribbons out of reach of cats.
2. Introducing a New Cat into Your Home
Cats thrive on routine and predictability, so a smooth transition is key to their comfort and confidence.
Start Small
Resist the urge to let your new cat explore your entire home immediately.
- Begin with a single “safe” room where they can become familiar with the smells and sounds of your household.
- Allow your cat to explore this space at their own pace. Once they show confidence—eating regularly, using the litter box, and interacting with you—you can gradually give them access to other areas.
Be Patient
Every cat adjusts at their own pace.
- Some will explore and seek attention right away, while others may hide for several days.
- Avoid reaching into hiding places or forcing interaction. Sit quietly, speak softly, and let your cat initiate contact.
- Use treats and toys to build trust and encourage gentle play.
Maintain a Routine
Cats are creatures of habit.
- Keep consistent feeding times for your cat.
- Include regular playtime using interactive toys like feather wands or laser pointers.
- Quiet, consistent interactions help your cat feel safe and predict what to expect in their new environment.
Slow Introductions for Multi-Pet Homes
Introducing your cat to other pets—especially other cats or dogs—requires time and strategy.
- Scent First: Swap bedding or rub a towel on one pet and leave it with the other to get them used to each other’s scent.
- Visual Introduction: Use a baby gate or cracked door to allow safe, controlled visual contact.
- Short Supervised Sessions: When both animals appear calm, allow brief, monitored interactions. Look for relaxed body language and keep sessions short.
Be Prepared to Go Slow: Some introductions take days, others take weeks. Watch for signs of stress or aggression and avoid rushing the process.
3. Want to Help but Can’t Adopt?
Not everyone is in a position to bring a new pet home—but there are many meaningful ways to support shelter cats and the organizations that care for them.
Donate Supplies or Funds
Shelters always need help restocking basics and paying for veterinary care.
- Items such as cat food, litter, bedding, toys, and cleaning supplies are always appreciated.
- Consider donating money to help cover the cost of spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and medical treatments.
Foster a Cat or Kitten
Fostering provides a temporary home for a cat while freeing up space in the shelter.
- This is especially valuable during kitten season, when shelters are overwhelmed.
- Fostering is flexible—some cats need just a few weeks, others may need longer-term care while they await adoption.
- Many rescues cover medical expenses and provide food or supplies.
Volunteer Your Time
Most shelters rely on volunteers to support their day-to-day operations.
- Tasks can include feeding, cleaning enclosures, socializing cats, or assisting with adoption events.
- Volunteering is a great way to make a hands-on impact and learn more about animal care.
Share on Social Media
Help cats find homes by spreading the word.
- Follow your local shelters on social media and share photos and bios of adoptable cats.
- Use hashtags like #AdoptAShelterCat or #FosterNeeded to help posts reach more potential adopters or volunteers.
Shop (or Donate) with Purpose
Some of the local shelters are supported by second-hand stores. Pick up your next treasure for a bargain or donate your unwanted items- either way, you can help change lives. Examples include:
PAWSibilities Thrift at 8177 Regent Parkway, Fort Mill, SC supports the Humane Society of York County.
Pawsitively Thrift Shop at 8715 Whiporwill Lane, Indian Land, SC supports Paws in the Panhandle
Final Thoughts
Bringing a cat into your life is a deeply rewarding experience. By adopting, fostering, donating, or simply sharing a post online, you’re helping to give shelter cats the love, comfort, and second chance they deserve.
If you’re considering adding a feline friend to your family, we’re here to help with advice, wellness care, and support every step of the way.
Let’s celebrate Adopt a Shelter Cat Month together—because every cat deserves a home, and every act of kindness counts.
