There are numerous animal rescue centers in Ireland where abandoned animals are looking for a loving forever home. By adopting a cat from one of these centers, you are not only giving a new life to an animal but also fulfilling a great responsibility for animal welfare.
There are some simple procedures to follow before adopting a cat in Ireland. Let’s discuss the procedures in detail.
Adopting a Cat from a Rescue in Ireland
Ireland has numerous animal rescue centers where abandoned animals in care find a forever loving home. By adopting a cat from these centers, you are not only giving a new life to an animal but also fulfilling a great responsibility for animal welfare.
There are many rescue centers in Ireland where you can get a cat. Most centers will ask you a few questions:
- What age range of cats do you prefer? Kittens, adults, or senior cats?
- Do you have other pets at home?
- What type of cat are you looking for: indoor, outdoor, or a mix of the two?
- Are you a homeowner or a renter?
Before adopting a cat from a rescue, there are some simple procedures to follow, such as filling out an application form, home check, obtaining approval, etc.
Adoption Application Form
This step is quite simple: the first step is to fill out an adoption application form.
This form is usually available on the rescue center’s website. It will ask you to provide information about your lifestyle and why you want a cat. If you don’t get an application form online, they will give you a paper form.
Most forms ask for the following information:
- Your full address and contact details
- Your landlord’s permission if you are renting
- Whether you have other pets at home
- How many hours a day you are away from home
- The ages of your family members
This information helps the rescue center determine if you are a suitable home for the cat.
Home Check
A home check is an important step in cat adoption in Ireland. This involves a representative from the rescue team visiting your home to check:
- That the accommodation is safe and suitable for the cat
- That the windows are securely fitted
- Whether there are any hazards to the cat outside the home (such as busy roads)
- Whether there are any poisonous plants or dangerous objects
The aim of a home check is to ensure that your cat is in a safe and healthy environment. There is nothing to be afraid of, it is really to help you.
Recommendations and Approval
Sometimes the rescue center may ask you for a reference letter. This usually comes from your veterinarian or someone who can prove that you are capable of caring for a pet.
If everything is in order, the rescue center will notify you of approval. You can then move on to the next step of choosing a cat.
Choosing a Cat
After receiving approval, the most exciting moment comes: choosing your new companion!
Every cat has a different temperament, so when choosing, find a cat that fits your lifestyle and personality.
How to choose?
When choosing a cat, consider the following:
- Do you want a young kitten or an adult cat? Adult cats usually require less care.
- Do you want a calm lap cat or a playful cat?
- Some cats may require special care, such as medication, special food, etc.
- Some cats do not get along well with other animals or small children.
Rescue workers will tell you about each cat’s temperament and needs, and will advise you on which cat would be best for you.
Bringing the Cat Home
Once you have chosen a cat, there are some preparations to make:
- Prepare a separate room for the cat where it can relax.
- Purchase food bowls, water bowls, litter boxes, cat beds, and toys.
- Give the cat time to adjust to its new surroundings for the first few days.
- Be patient, some cats may take a while to adjust to a new home.
Costs of Adopting a Cat in Ireland
There are some costs involved when adopting a cat, which usually cover the cat’s medical expenses (vaccines, neutering or spaying, microchipping). The fees for different rescue centers may vary slightly, but generally:
Cat adoption fee: between €80 and €150
Some centers may charge a slightly higher fee for small kittens
Sometimes the adoption fee includes the cat’s initial health check and veterinary costs
Many rescue centers use this money to run their operations, so it’s not only your responsibility; it’s also a noble contribution.
Popular Cat Rescue Centers in Ireland
There are a few famous rescue centers in Ireland, from which you can adopt:
1. Dublin SPCA
The SPCA in Dublin is one of the oldest and largest animal welfare organizations in Ireland. In addition to cat adoption, they also provide medical care, education, and rescue for animals.
Address: Mount Venus Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16
Contact: +353 1 499 4700
Website: www.dspca.ie
2. Cats Aid Dublin
Cats Aid Dublin is a specialist cat rescue organization, which rescues and rehabilitates abused, abandoned, or sick cats.
Address: PO Box 5604, Dublin 14
Contact: +353 87 294 1805
Website: www.catsaid.ie
3. The Cat and Dog Protection Association of Ireland (CDPA)
CDPA is a non-profit organization that seeks safe havens for cats and dogs. They have cats of all ages and personalities available.
Address: Carmichael Centre for Voluntary Groups, 4 Brunswick St N, Dublin 7
Contact: +353 85 861 1220
Website: www.cdpa.ie
4. Munster Lost and Found Pet Helpline
One of the largest cat and dog rescue organizations in the Munster region. It is particularly popular for cat adoptions in the Cork region.
Website: www.munsterlostandfound.com
5. Galway Cat Rescue
This volunteer-run organization based in the Galway region rescues abandoned cats and finds them new homes.
Website: www.galwaycatrescue.ie
Some Additional Important Tips
- Consider future expenses. Cat food, veterinary costs, insurance, etc., will be regular expenses.
- It is important to get your cat microchipped. In Ireland, microchipping is often mandatory by law.
- Check vaccinations and neutering. Make sure the cat has received basic health care before adopting.
- Consider cat insurance. This can be helpful in case of emergency treatment.
- Choose the right food. The food should be given according to the cat’s age and health.
Adopting a cat in Ireland is a very precious and emotional decision. The process takes a little time and patience, but in return, you receive a lot of love. By adopting a cat from a rescue center, you are not only giving life to an animal but also making your own life happier.
If you are a cat lover and want to find a new friend, then contact your local rescue center now, maybe you will meet your new friend today!
