Published by: Ingrid King. Last Updated on: February 1, 2023 by Crystal Uys
November is Adopt-a-Senior Pet month. If you’re looking to add a new feline family member, don’t overlook the joys of adopting an older cat. Jane Harrell, executive producer at Petfinder.com, lists 10 reasons senior cats rule, and I agree with all of them. With a senior cat, you know what you’re going to get: the cat’s personality is already formed, so you’ll have a better idea of how she’ll fit into your family. Senior cats are usually already trained in the ways of living with humans. They’re purr-fect if you’re looking for a snuggle buddy. And most importantly, since senior cats are often the last to get adopted, you’ll literally be saving a life when you adopt one of these mature felines.
My own experience of adopting an older cat came with Buckley, who was most likely somewhere between eight and ten years old when I fell in love with her.  Even though she was only with me for three short years, I wouldn’t have wanted to miss a single moment.
Today, I’d like to introduce you to three senior torties from around the country who are looking for their forever homes to live out their golden years.
Velvet pictured in the photo at the top of this post, is 8 years old. Her owner died, and there was noone else to care for this beautiful girl. Velvet gets easily stressed by new situations, but once she warms up to someone, she loves to be brushed and petted and gives head butts. She also likes her independence. Velvet was adopted once, but was returned to the shelter. This lovely lady still has a lot of love to give to someone. She is available for adoption from the Baltimore Humane Society in Reisterstown, MD. For more information, please view Velvet’s Petfinder profile.
Queenie is about 9 years old. She was adopted out by the New Rochelle, NY Humane Society several years ago, and was subsequently returned after her family brought home a dog. This beautiful tortie girl with her gorgeous green eyes is much better suited for a life full of warm laps, sunny windowsills, and cozy couches than life in a shelter. For more information, please view Queenie’s Petfinder profile.
At 6 years old, Isis is barely a senior. This little girl looks like she needs to grow into her tag! She would love to find someone special she can purr and cuddle with. She gets along with other cats and is very well mannered (no climbing the drapes!). She is available for adoption from Sun Cities 4 Paws Rescue in Youngstown, AZ. For more information, please visit Isis’ Petfinder profile.
Have you ever adopted a senior cat? Please share your story!
About the author
Ingrid King is an award-winning author, former veterinary hospital manager, and veterinary journalist who is passionate about cats.