They’re more likely to climb on to your lap than climb up your curtains but they’re still full of life. Find out why you shouldn’t overlook an older cat.
Despite their grace and charm, older cats are often overlooked by people wanting to rescue a cat. Older cats are just as cute, quirky and loving as their younger counterparts and with at least eight lives still left to live. Take a look at just some of the reasons why a more senior cat may be a great choice for you and your family.
OLDER CATS ARE STRONG, INDEPENDENT FELINES
Older cats are naturally more settled and generally happier in their own company than younger cats and kittens. If you’re out all day and looking for a bit of feline company when you get home in the evenings, then a suitable older cat may be your best bet. You will still need to feed and refresh your cat’s water and litter trays regularly, but they will need less attention than a young kitten for example, which would need feeding four times a day.
THEY’RE NOT OVER THE HILL, JUST OVER CLIMBING IT
You’re more likely to find your older cat climbing on your lap than climbing up your curtains! The older a cat gets, the less they roam and hunt and the calmer they become. Instead of running around, you’ll probably find them curled up in a warm, cosy spot, but they will still show you their playful side when they want to. It’s still important to keep your older cat stimulated and give them the option to play, but they will probably want to do this less often than a younger cat, giving you more time for other things (like cuddles).
AN OLDER CAT IS A CAT OF GOOD CHARACTER
Rescuing an adult cat means you will have a much better idea of the cat’s personality and what they like and dislike. Staff at Battersea and other rescue centres will be able to advise you on an older cat’s behaviour, whether or not they can live with other animals, any existing health issues, and anything else you might need to know. By rescuing an older cat you’ll be safe in the knowledge that your new friend is the right fit for you and your home.
AN OLDER CAT IS A SAFE PAIR OF PAWS
There’s no denying that kittens are cute and cuddly. But by rescuing an older cat, you’ll have the benefit of knowing how they are likely to behave around children as they grow and get a better idea of how well they should settle into your particular family set-up. Plus, if you only have room in your family life for one new feline friend, then an older cat with a history of going it alone could be an excellent choice.
OUR REHOMING PROCESS
If you've not rehomed a Battersea animal before, you may not know what to expect.
When you register with us, we’ll ask lots of questions about your lifestyle and living circumstances. When you submit the completed registration form, you’ll receive an automated response to confirm we’ve received it. Then we use a combination of extensive rehoming experience, our staff expertise and analytical tools to search for a potential match.
If we find a cat that might be a good fit, our rehoming team will get in touch with you personally to talk about it all in more detail. After that, if everyone agrees the cat is the right one for you, we’ll arrange for you to meet virtually. Then we’ll deliver your new cat to you – and we’ll give you lots of advice on helping your new friend to settle in.
If you think an older cat would be the perfect addition to your family, visit out rehoming gallery and meet the cats ready to be loved.
