The Pet Parent's Guide to Adopting an Older Cat

A kitten can be the purr-fect new addition to your feline fur fam. But if you limit yourself to just kittens, you might miss out on a fantastic older cat who needs a home. Adult cats have a lot to offer, and there are several advantages to adopting them over holding out for a teeny tiny kitten. 

Before you make a trip to your local shelter, think carefully about whether an older cat might be the right addition —your place could become their forever home.Let’s navigate the adoption process to help set your new feline friend up for success, including expert insights from certified Cat Behaviorist, Shani Campbell.

At what age is a cat considered “adult”? 

Many kittens stop growing once they are 12 months old, but some will still continue to grow until they’re 18 months. Larger breeds like Maine Coons may continue growing until they’re about two years old, but generally speaking, kittens are considered to be mature cats around one year of age. 

Cats enter their senior years at different times. Generally, they are considered middle-aged between 7 and 10 years old. Once they reach 11 to 14 years, they are classified as a senior pet, and those over 15 are considered geriatric.

Adopting an older cat vs. a kitten

There are many advantages to adopting an older cat compared to adopting a young cat. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider welcoming an adult cat into your heart: 

• Less of a time commitment. Kittens can be a lot of work and require socialization, which can take a lot of your time. Young kittens also often do better in a new home when they’re adopted in pairs, which makes for increased care and expenses. If you’re looking for a cat that doesn’t require the more intense care and attention that kittens need, an adult cat might be the perfect choice.
• Adult temperament. Adult cats aren’t as active as kittens, and they’ve already entered the more laid-back phase of their lives. That said, older cats are still all about daily playtime sessions, but they’re often also content to cuddle up with you on the couch and settle into your routine (zoomies notwithstanding). 
• Better choice for young children. If you have small children in the home, a younger cat may not be the best choice, since kids can accidentally hurt or be too rough with a kitten. An older cat who will tolerate kind petting but get up and leave the room when the kids become too much may be ideal. 
• Good litter box habits. There’s no need to worry about litter box training most adult cats, so expect few, if any, accidents in the house. 
• Fewer vet appointments. Kittens require more frequent trips to the vet for the kitten vaccine series, and you’ll also need to consider neuter or spay appointments if those procedures weren’t done before you adopted a kitten. With an older cat, you’ll spend less time at the vet and save on vet bills, too. 
• More affordable. Adoption centers often offer reduced adoption fees on adult cats, and many lower the fees even more for senior cats. Kittens, on the other hand, are in high demand, so they’re often more expensive to adopt (not to mention take care of).
• More choices. Kittens tend to get adopted quickly, but you can almost always find plenty of older adoptable cats at shelters. You will have plenty of cats to choose from and can take the time to find the cat who’s the perfect fit for your home. 

Many people overlook older cats in shelters simply because they’re not kittens, leaving so many deserving cats waiting for homes. Adult black cats, in particular, are the least likely to get adopted, with only a 10% adoption rate.

Cat behaviorist Shani Campbell explains that one of the most common mistakes people make when adopting an adult cat is judging the cat’s personality based on shelter behavior.

Even the best shelters can be inherently stressful for cats, leading to a wide range of behaviors. Shy or withdrawn cats—those who may hide and avoid interaction in a shelter—often become the most affectionate and grateful companions once they’ve had time to settle into a stable and trusting environment.

Shani Campbell

While older cats make wonderful companions, there are a few challenges to keep in mind before bringing one home:

Health concerns. Senior cats are more likely to develop age-related health issues like arthritis, kidney disease, or dental problems. These conditions can require ongoing veterinary care, medication, or special diets, which may increase costs over time.

Lower activity levels. While older cats may still be fairly active, senior cats often slow down even more. They may not be as playful as younger cats and could prefer lounging over chasing toys, which might not be the best fit for someone looking for a more energetic pet.

Longer adjustment period. Older cats often need more time to feel comfortable in a new environment, especially if they’ve had a tough past. Some may hide for days or even weeks before fully settling in, requiring extra patience as they adapt.

Shorter time together. One of the hardest parts of adopting an older cat is knowing that they may have fewer years left with you than a kitten would. While their companionship is just as rewarding, potential adopters should be prepared for the possibility of caring for a senior cat in their final years.

Adopting an older cat can be an incredibly fulfilling experience, but it’s important to consider both the rewards and the challenges to make sure it’s the right fit for you and your home.

Options for cat adoption

Once you’ve decided to adopt a cat, where do you start? Here are some common routes to finding your perfect feline companion:

1. Animal shelters: Local humane societies and rescue organizations are excellent places to find older cats in need of homes.
2. Rescue groups: Some groups specialize in specific breeds or cats with special needs.
3. Online adoption platforms: Websites like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet allow you to search for cats in your area.
4. Foster programs: Some cats live with foster families before being adopted, allowing for a better understanding of their personalities.
5. Rehoming situations: Sometimes, pet owners need to rehome their cats due to life changes, and taking in a cat from a trusted source can be a great option.

What is the cost of adopting an older cat vs a kitten?

Beyond finding the right match, it’s also worth considering the financial aspects of adoption. Here’s how the costs of adopting an older cat compared to bringing home a kitten:

• Adoption fees: Shelters and rescues often offer lower adoption fees for older cats to encourage adoption, typically around $50 to $100. Kittens, on the other hand, are in high demand and usually have higher fees, ranging from $100 to $250.
• Veterinary Costs: Many adult cats come spayed/neutered and fully vaccinated, whereas kittens may require multiple rounds of shots $75 to $200 and a spay/neuter surgery $250 to $2000, adding to initial costs.
• Supplies: Kittens need specialized supplies such as kitten food, smaller litter boxes, and extra toys. Initial supply costs for a kitten can be around $150 to $300, while for an adult cat, it’s often lower, around $100 to $200.

Adjusting to life with an older cat

While there are plenty of perks to adopting an older cat, the transition may take some time. Rehoming a cat who has lived in the same home for years may require extra patience as they adjust to a new environment. Unlike kittens, who are often more adaptable, older cats may take longer to feel secure.

Earning their trust is all about patience—giving them space and allowing them to seek you out on their own terms. With time, consistency, and a little understanding, your new feline friend will begin to feel at home.

Campbell emphasizes that for cat owners to help a new cat adjust, it’s crucial to provide a gradual and thoughtful introduction to their new home, starting with preparing a quiet room equipped with all the essentials:

• Two litter boxes
• Food and water far from litter boxes.
• A cat tree and elevated surfaces: Try covering the cat tree with a large sheet, think kitty fort!
• Scratchers and enrichment items
• Appropriate hiding spots for the cat to feel safe

Allow the cat to adjust at their own pace. Give them time, space, and the freedom to explore on their terms. Avoid expecting too much too soon.

Shani Campbell

Campbell advises, “Keep things predictable and easy for the cat by establishing a routine, such as bringing food directly to them if they’re hesitant to leave their hiding place. Provide plenty of opportunities for play and engagement as they begin to feel more comfortable. Introducing a new home in a slow and deliberate way sets the stage for long-term success.”

 Chances are that within a few days, you’ll start to see more of your new furry companion, and within a week or two, they will feel right at home.

Building a strong bond with your cat

When it comes to bonding with your cat, it’s important to understand that every relationship is different. Cats have their own personalities, preferences, and comfort levels, so finding the right balance between offering choices, respecting boundaries, and play time is essential. 

Here are a few ways to foster a lasting bond with your feline friend:

1. Allow your cat to have autonomy

Of course, we all want to immediately snuggle with our new kitty because they’re so lovable, but respecting your cat’s autonomy is key to strengthening your connection—especially with shy cats.

It’s essential to allow cats full control over their bodies and their interactions with us. By offering choices and respecting their autonomy, we create a more trusting and positive relationship.

Shani Campbell

To support this, give your cat the space to approach you on their own terms. Offering options—such as various resting spots or toys—lets them make decisions that enhance their comfort. This approach helps lay the foundation for positive interactions and encourages trust to grow over time.

2. Establish a predictable environment

Cats are creatures of habit, and they find comfort in routines. Campbell explains that being consistent and predictable in your movements and actions helps your older cat feel safe, as they know what to expect from you: 

Repeatedly touching, picking up, or holding a cat without their consent does not teach them to tolerate it—instead, it erodes trust and can lead to defensive behaviors that may be labeled as ‘aggression.’

Shani Campbell

Stick to a predictable routine, like feeding at the same time or offering quiet time together, to build a sense of security.

3. Engage in play and enrichment time

Interactive play is one of the most rewarding ways to bond with your cat. Not only does it provide them with the physical exercise they need, but it also satisfies their natural instincts. Engaging in play helps your cat feel seen and understood, reinforcing the connection between you.

Campbell adds, “For indoor cats who cannot hunt naturally, interactive play with wand toys mimics the ‘hunt and kill’ aspect of their instincts. After a play session, feeding your cat reinforces this sequence, making them more likely to groom and then take a nap. Ideally, this routine should be repeated at least twice daily.”

Caring for your cat’s health

As cats age, they may experience certain health issues like arthritis, hyperthyroidism, dental disease, and diabetes. It’s a good idea to ask any animal shelter about the results of any vet evaluations their cats have received. Shelters should be willing to share the cat’s health information with potential adopters, so you’re aware of any significant health conditions. 

If you plan to adopt an older cat, you might want to get them covered with pet insurance. A base Lemonade pet insurance policy can help cover the veterinary costs associated with unexpected accidents & illnesses. In addition, you can add the Lemonade Preventative or Preventative+ package which can help cover the costs of vaccines, tests, dental cleaning, and even your cat’s annual wellness exam. 

Keep in mind that treatments for medical conditions your kitty showed signs of or was treated for before you applied for a policy would not be covered by a pet insurance policy, since they would be considered pre-existing conditions. 

What questions should I ask my vet when adopting an older cat?

• Once you’ve adopted your new pet, it’s a great idea to schedule an appointment with your vet to have the cat examined.Regular vet visits are essential to keeping your cat healthy, and this first checkup is a great time to ask important questions, such as: What type of diet should my cat be eating? 
• How can I keep my cat at a healthy weight?
• Does my cat have any health conditions, and if so, how can I help manage them? 
• Is my cat up-to-date on vaccines, and are there any additional vaccines that you recommend they receive? 
• What type of flea and heartworm treatment should I use for my cat? 
• Are there any tests, like bloodwork, that you would recommend for my cat? 
• What condition are my cat’s teeth in, and will they need any dental work in the near future? 

If your cat’s age isn’t documented, your vet can examine your cat to estimate their age. Your vet will look at the wear on your cat’s teeth, and will also look for other signs of age like cloudiness around the eyes to give an approximate age estimation. 

Before we go…

By adopting an older cat, you’re giving a feline a new lease on all of their nine lives. 

Being able to give a new furry friend a loving home is a rewarding experience, and one that can change your family for the snugglier. If you’re considering cat adoption, don’t write off those adult cats just yet. When you consider all of the benefits of adopting an adult kitty, you might find that it’s the right decision for your family.

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A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.