Adopting an animal
We always have many cats in need of loving homes. You can meet some of them on our Facebook page. You can also find many of our cats on the RSPCA website.
All our cats are neutered, micro-chipped, vaccinated, vet-checked, treated for fleas and worms, and behaviourally assessed to make sure they are clean around the house and good-tempered.
If you are interested, please read through the following requirements and frequently asked questions in case they apply to you, and if you still wish to adopt, start the adoption process.
Requirements for adoption
- We generally require new pet owners to:
- Be able to afford to insure or take their pets to a private vet.
- Be prepared to keep the cat in for four weeks and thereafter always get in at night with emergency litter tray.
- Be a permanent resident of the UK.
- Have a catflap or other emergency access for the cat.
- Treat their pet as a permanent member of the family with every life decision including the future of the pet.
FAQs
We recognise that all animals and owners are individuals and consider all circumstances when discussing an adoption, but below are a frequently asked questions which will help you make the right decision and find the best suited pet.
What animals can be adopted?
Our RSPCA branch only has cats for adoption; if you want to adopt a dog or other small animal, you are still welcome to submit your details using our form: we may be able to share your details with other branch, or point you in the right direction as another local centre or branch may be able to assist you.
Do I need a garden / outdoor space to adopt a pet?
The majority of cats in our care are used to the outdoors and would love a house with a garden. Ideally a safe garden leading to other gardens with no direct access to the road. Learn more about why the majority of our animals need outside access.
However, we have some cats who are used to living indoors (more info), and some rabbits may also be suitable to rehome as ‘house bunnies’. We will carry out a home visit before adoption to check that windows and balconies are safe.
NB:
- We cannot rehome animals in homes with roof terraces, for safety reasons.
- We cannot send kittens to a home without a garden.
Do I need to own my own home?
It is preferable but not essential. If you are a tenant you will need to have written permission from your landlord before you adopt an animal.
Since not all landlords allow pets, if you are likely to move in the future you may wish to consider fostering instead.
Can I adopt a pet if I have young children?
We cannot always rehome animals with children under the age of five as many of the animals requiring homes usually need a quieter environment as they settle in.
