June Is National Adopt-A-Cat Month
June 5, 2009 – 6:49 amNormally, I wouldn’t consider adopting a pet as an issue for a blog about saving money. Pets can be expensive… what am I saying… pets ARE expensive. However, when your little ones give you those big eyes and say “Please, please, please, can we get a kitty?” it’s hard to resist and most of us will give in at some point.
So, Mom, how do you give in without giving up your frugal ways? There are several advantages to adopting a kitten or cat during June, National Adopt-A-Cat Month. Many shelters are offering incentives, such as free spay and neuter programs, reduced or free vaccinations, and free health screenings for the new adoptees.
Special consideration may be given to folks who adopt older cats. Reduced adoption fees and free vaccinations may be offered. Of course, if a pair of playful kittens is more your style, and you can keep up with the energy, a shelter may offer incentives for this double adoption, as well. Because there are more kittens and cats in shelters in the month of June than any other time of the year, you will find shelters eager to find homes for their resident felines.
Be sure you discuss all the ups and downs of having kittens or cats in your household. Research the costs, the time, and the work that it takes to care for a cat. Investigate the breed, if applicable, the differences between the requirements of a male cat versus a female cat, and the benefits of certain traits, such as long hair versus short hair. Then, visit several shelters in your area, get some one-on-one time with the cats and kittens, and ask about any discounts or free services offered by the shelter if you choose to adopt from them.
This may be the perfect time to welcome a new little fuzzy friend into your household. Do your homework to ensure that everyone benefits from your new addition to the family. Have fun!