June is Adopt a Cat Month

Each spring, thousands of kittens join the millions of cats already in animal shelters across the country. That means your local shelter has tons of cute, cuddly kittens, lots of mellow, older cats and everything in between! Shelter staff are ready to help you adopt your very first cat — or to bring home a new companion for your current cat.

Here's a list from the American Humane Association of things to do before bringing home your feline friend:

1. If you're thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two.
2. Find a cat whose personality matches with yours.
3. Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption.
4. Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before it comes home.
5. Budget for the short- and long-term costs having of a cat.
6. Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives.
7. Cat-proof your home.
8. Go slowly when introducing your new cat to friends, family and existing pets.
9. Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan.
10. If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process. 

If you're unable to adopt, but you would still like to help promote Adopt-a-Cat month, consider these suggestions from Petfinder:

• Donate your facebook status and/or tweet the following message " June is Adopt-a-Cat Month. Save a life: Adopt a cat!"
• Contact your local shelter or rescue group and ask if they have a wishlist or flyer you can post.
• Share an adoptable cat on your blog, facebook profile or twitter.
• Sign up as a foster parent or shelter volunteer.
• Add a Petfinder banner or widget to your blog or website.

Just think - your next best friend could be waiting for you at your local animal shelter. Kinda gives you goose bumps, doesn't it?

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