Published by: Ingrid King. Last Updated on: February 1, 2023 by Crystal Uys
Black cats. FIV+ cats. Senior cats. Special needs cats. These are just some of the factors that can make a cat seem ”less adoptable.” To promote these special cats (and dogs, too), Petfinder has designated September 17 – 23 as “Adopt-A-Less-Adoptable-Pet Week.” I actually don’t like the term “less adoptable” at all, which is why I put it in quotes – I prefer to think of these cats as extra special.
The statistics are sobering: according to Petfinder, these “less-adoptable” cats are likely to spend nearly four times longer than the average pet waiting for a home. As anyone who has ever lived with a special needs cat knows, these wonderful cats make some of the most loving and wonderful companions. Today, I’d like to introduce you to a few of them that are looking for their forever homes.
How can you help these cats find a home? If you’re looking for a feline family member, consider opening your heart and home to one of these extra special cats. You won’t regret it. If you’re not ready to adopt right now, there are other ways you can help:
- Educate others about the joys and rewards of adopting an older cat, or a cat with special needs.
- Donate your Facebook status to a “less adoptable” cat this week. Share information about special needs cats who are looking for their forever homes.
- Volunteer at your local shelter and make a point to spend extra time with cats who have been at the shelter for a long time.
I’d like to introduce you to some cats who fall into the “less adoptable” category for various reasons. All of them are looking for their forever home – maybe it could be yours?
Kirsten is approximately 8 years old. She is total love bug and loves to sit on laps. Anybody sitting down is fair game in her book! Even though she’s considered a senior, she has a lot of energy that she likes to use up by playing with toys, balls and anything else you want to dangle in front of her. Kirsten has been through seven different foster homes due to family allergies, vacations and other reasons that were never her fault, and she would really like to find a permanent home. Kirsten is being fostered through Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation in Northern Virginia.
Libra (also known affectionately as Lee), is a low maintenance, non demanding senior kitty who is looking for the purrfect home. He is very laid back and has the most gentle temperament. He loves to be petted, especially on his ears, chin, and boy does he love head rubs. He loves to play with toys on a wand and would really like to spend his cuddle time with you! He does the sweetest somersault onto the ground when you rub his back. Libra is available for adoption in Anchorage, Alaska throught the Alaska ASPCA.
Muffy and Ziggy are two senior tortie girls. They are 10 years old, small, healthy, and well-mannered lap kitties They purr and make biscuits like crazy. Muffy is a little powder puff and gives a great back massage. Ziggy only dreams of being loved. They are being fostered through Fancy Cats Rescue Team in Northern Virginia.
Tiffee has two strikes against her when it comes to being chosen: she’s a senior, and she’s black. This sweet girl believes she is the absolute queen of the house and does not want any other felines in her castle. She would be best as an only cat. She is very affectionate, about 8 years old, and in very good health. Her previous home had children that were a bit more than Tiffee appreciated. Tiffee is available for adoption through H.O.P.E. Safehouse, Inc. in Racine, WI.
About the author
Ingrid King is an award-winning author, former veterinary hospital manager, and veterinary journalist who is passionate about cats.