Adopting a cat can be a wonderful and rewarding experience, and there are many available options to help you find your perfect companion. While there are many reputable animal shelters and rescue organizations, one option is Craigslist, a classified ads website.
After applying to many adoption applications through shelters and rescues with no response, we decided to adopt through Craigslist. We adopted our cats, Lychee and Taro, from the website! It was a lot more convenient than going through a formal adoption process.
However, before adopting through Craigslist, it's important to understand the risks and responsibilities involved and take the necessary precautions to ensure you're making a safe and informed decision. Adopting a cat is not a decision to be taken lightly, so it's important to take your time and carefully consider your options.
Here are some tips from our experience to help you adopt a cat from Craigslist:
1. Be cautious of scams: Unfortunately, some individuals use Craigslist to scam people for money. Be wary of ads that seem too good to be true, and be cautious of anyone who asks for payment before you meet the cat in person.
The pictures are often blurry or fake. If the picture shows up in multiple posts over a long period, the post could be a scam. I'd recommend a reverse Google image search. Google will provide a list of websites where the image appears, similar images, and relevant information.
2. Be cautious of kitten mills: Reputable breeders do not put their cats on Craigslist. Both of our cats' breeds are mixed. If you're looking for a purebred kitten, you're most likely getting kittens from kitten mills or backyard breeders.
Kitten mills are commercial breeding facilities that breed many kittens, often in super overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, and backyard breeders are people who breed pets in their homes without proper knowledge or resources to do their responsibility.
3. Ask for plenty of information: Don't be afraid to ask for more information when you find a cat you're interested in. We also asked for pictures and videos!
Find out as much as you can about the cat's age, health, temperament, and any special needs they may have. You'll also want to ask about the cat's history, including how they ended up in their current situation.
4. Ask for proof of vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and deworming: Ask for documentation from a vet or shelter to ensure the cat is healthy. Just because someone says their cat is healthy doesn't necessarily mean it's true. Ask for documentation to be sure.
5. Meet the cat in person: Before you adopt a cat, make sure to meet the cat in person first. While a cat may sound perfect on paper, they may not fit your home right once you meet them in person.
6. Consider the cost: While adopting a cat from Craigslist may be less expensive than adopting from a shelter or a breeder, it's still important to consider the cost of caring for your new pet. This includes food, litter, toys, vet bills, and other expenses associated with owning a cat.
7. Get the cat checked by a veterinarian: Before bringing your new cat home, schedule a vet appointment for a thorough check-up and necessary vaccinations. This will help ensure your new pet is healthy and free of any underlying health issues.
Adopting a cat is a big decision, and it's important to take your time to make the right choice. Don't rush into anything, and make sure you're ready to provide your new friend a loving home. Adopting a cat from Craigslist can be a great option, but it's essential to be cautious to ensure you make a safe and informed decision. Good luck!
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