Top 10 Reasons Owners Surrender Cats to Shelters

The person who had my cat surrendered her to the Anti-Cruelty Society after seven years because she didn't have time for her. To me, that isn't much of a reason but more of an excuse. I would have at least tried to find her a home. I wouldn't willing part with her now unless I was leaving this world -and then I would make some provision for her where she wouldn't be put back in a shelter. I promised the shelter people; I promised the cat; and I promised to haunt all of my friends if one of them didn't take her.

I foster for a humane society and I can't begin to tell you how many animals at the shelter are owner surrendered. The biggest problem is during kitten season when people who refuse to get their outdoor female cats spayed bring in litter after litter. Instead of spaying the cat, they dump the litters off, sometimes even before they should be weaned. People often get an animal without truly thinking ahead and/or proper planning. Before you adopt or bring home an animal you need to first think A. Can I commit to a life time with this animal? well cared for cats can live up to 15-20 years. B. Am I willing to accept responsibility for this animal through all life changes..i.e. moving, getting married, having children...C. Can I afford to give this animal the proper care it needs? Spaying/neutering, food, medical care, etc. If the answer is no to any of this, then maybe at this time owning an animal is not right for you. In regards to the post about getting rid of a cat because you have children, I got my first cat while single and in college. My 15 lb cat is not cat friendly nor is she what I'd consider child friendly either. Still, when I had children, I taught my children to leave her be. Not to pull on her tail or yank her fur. I also got her softpaws in the event that if she ever did try to scratch them, it wouldn't hurt. My point is, you CAN make changes to your own household and those changes can make typical life events (children, marriage, etc) easier on you all. I truly believe your attitude and willingness to find a solution to problems that arise will make all the difference in the world.