If you are looking for a new feline friend. there are many reasons to rescue a cat, rather than to purchase one, Here are ten reasons off the top of our head why rescue cats and much better than store-bought.

1. Adoption Saves Lives

Latest figures show that some 3.2 million cats make their way into U.S. animal shelters each year. Sadly, about 860,000 are euthanized. Choosing adoption means saving the life of a feline in need. It also opens up space so the shelter can care for another cat in need until they find their forever home.

2. Adopting a Cat Is Great for Your Mental Health

It’s no secret that a cat can put a smile on your face, but did you know that they can improve your mental health? Research indicates that sharing your home with a furry feline family member can positively impact your ability to cope with depression, anxiety, stress, and loneliness.

3. …And Your Physical Health

By lowering stress levels, cats make their owners less susceptible to cardiovascular disease. The sound of a cat purring has been shown in some cases to help heal bones and tendons and enhances joint mobility after injuries. Moreover, youngsters raised around cats may be less likely to develop sensitivities to many common allergens including; grass, ragweed, and dust mites.

4. Shelter Cats Have Often Established Their Personalities

Just as with people, every cat has their own personality. If you buy a kitten, you never really know what their nature will be like when they get older. When adopting an adult cat, our fosters, volunteers and those surrendering cats have spent time with the felines in their care and can clue you into their personality. Whether you are looking for a peppy playmate or a calm companion, adopting from a shelter makes it much easier to find a cat whose personality is right for your family. During the time the cat spends at the shelter, the employees may also determine if the cat is good with other cats, dogs, and humans.

5. Adopting a Cat Makes Good Financial Sense

No matter how you cut it, having a cat is be a financial responsibility. In addition to covering the cost of food, toys, litter, and other necessities, you need to be prepared to pay for veterinary care. Our fee for cat adoption often includes spaying, neutering and vaccinations. Our fees generally are much lower than covering the cost of services separately, and it ensures that your new pet is off to a healthy start.

6. Cats Can Make Other Pets Happier

Cats aren’t just great for their humans’ mental health. They can make other animals happier, too. If you have a dog or another cat who is lonely while you are at work, a new feline friend may be the purr-fect solution. When adopting from a shelter, you can even “cat test” your current pets to make sure they will get along with their new family member. It may take some time for all of your pets to adjust to each other, but in time, a new cat can bring a lot of happiness to your home.

7. Rescued Cats May Have Fewer Health Problems

Just as in dogs, cats that are mixed breeds tend to experience fewer health issues.

Various kinds of purebred cats are prone to serious health issues, such as:

• Patellar luxation
• Hip dysplasia
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Cardiomyopathy
• Gingivitis
• And more…

While responsible breeders do their best to produce healthy animals, the risk is always present. Mixed breeds typically inherit fewer genetic problems. Any cat can get sick, but a shelter cat with a mixed background may be less susceptible to serious medical issues.

8. There Are Plenty of Shelter Cats to Choose From

Over the course of time, we come across  loads of cats from which to choose. From tiny, playful kittens to more relaxed and snuggly senior cats. We literally find cats of all ages, sizes, and colors. Actually any time is a perfect time to find a new bundle of joy to add to your family.

9. Cats Are Well-Suited to Apartment Life

Finding the right cat can be tricky when you live in a small space. For apartment dwellers, cats are often a much better choice than dogs. They don’t require a lot of space, nor do they need to be taken outside for walks. Cats are low-maintenance roommates that can make even the tiniest of apartments feel more like “home.”

10. Cats Are Amazing Companions

At Heartland Cat Rescue we have a wide array loving cats who want nothing more than a home of their own. Adopting a feline family member brings joy to your life and is incredibly rewarding. Ask anyone who has ever owned a cat, and they will tell you that they make great companions.

There are many ways Heartland Cat Rescue has cats that are up for adoption or are available for fostering. Some people find them and hold them until they are cleared.  Others have fostered them for a while and seen to their needs and socialization. We have cats that have been spayed, neutered and have their vaccinations that are ready for adoption. Others are surrendering cats that have been fixed and are current on their shots. No matter if you want a small kitten, an adult cat or a senior cat, HCR generally can help folks find a new feline friend with which to bond.