Please Note:
Because Cat Action Team is 100% volunteer-based and does not maintain a physical shelter, we are unable to take in pets that need to be rehomed. Currently, CAT's resources are focused on supporting our core program - Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR).
Rehoming Your Pet
Pets are a lifelong commitment. When challenges arise, you may feel that giving up your pet is the only solution. Before making the decision to give up or rehome your pet, we encourage you to review the below resources and alternatives.
It's okay - considering giving up your pet is a difficult process. We recommend reviewing The Humane Society of the United States' website and this Best Friends Animal Society article on how to navigate issues and determine the best path forward for you and your pet.
Cats are sensitive animals. Cats showing aggression, destructiveness, or other atypical behaviors may have an underlying medical issue. We strongly recommend consulting your vet to pinpoint the source of behavioral issues and develop a plan to address them. Richmond Animal League (RAL) also has an excellent cat behavior resource page that may provide insight on your pet's behavior changes.
You are your pet's best chance of finding a loving and stable home. CAT highly encourages following the steps below to keep your pet(s) out of a shelter environment and help them get adopted:
- Make your pet(s) more attractive to adopters by having them spayed/neutered and up-to-date on required vaccinations. Be transparent about your pet's behaviors, diet, likes and dislikes, and medical history.
- Contact animal-loving friends, family, and community members through word-of-mouth or using social media. If you use social media, use clear photos and compelling stories. There could be potential adopters within just a few miles of you.
- Contact local shelters and veterinary offices that offer courtesy listing services. Typically you will need to provide recent photos, a medical record proving sterilization, and a short biography of your pet. If they have a physical bulletin board, post flyers.
- Post flyers at pet food stores, feed stores, coffee shops, or other public places that have bulletin boards.
- Don't give your pet to the first person who inquires. Check vet references, landlords (if applicable), and ask about other pets and young children.
- Rehome using free online posting tools like Adopt-A-Pet or Home to Home.
Sign up for our newsletter!
You'll receive the latest news on felines in our care, learn about upcoming events, be able to participate in fundraisers and giveaways, and much more.