Cat Adoption Checklist check mark

  • When you adopt a cat from the Humane Society of Parkersburg there are many responsibilities and lifestyle adjustments to consider. We will provide you with a reference packet after you adopt, but the following are some general points to keep in mind while making your decision.
  • All cats require a veterinary exam, a series of vaccinations, and regular grooming. You cat will have been given their initial vaccinations with the exception of Rabies. But kittens may require additional vaccinations depending upon their age and length of stay in our shelter.
  • Cats at the Humane Society of Parkersburg are not routinely tested for feline leukemia but will be at your request once you are approved to adopt. If you do not have them tested here, until you schedule a visit with your veterinarian, please separate your new cat from any existing family cats. Also, keep your new cat inside. If veterinary information from a previous owner was included in your paperwork, please review it to determine if a leukemia test was administered. The sooner you have your new cat tested, the quicker they can be integrated into your household.
  • Newly adopted cats should be kept indoors for at least the first few weeks in order to grow familiar with their new surroundings. During this period, the new house pet should be supervised and carefully socialized with other pets and children, as well as getting to know you.
  • We will send you home with a sample of the food your cat has been eating while in the shelter. While we recommend this product, you can use this food to transition your new cat to whatever food you choose to feed them. We do suggest a high-quality cat food to be fed in moderation, but be sure to ask your vet for recommendations.
  • Litter pans should be kept clean and in a quiet place.
  • Your cat benefits from casual exercise, so try to make play time available every day. Scratching may occur so keep their claws trimmed, but please don't have them removed. This has psychological repercussions on your cat's life. Contact us and/or your veterinarian for advice if you have persistent behavioral problems.
  • Your cat's I.D. tag is one of the main ways your new pet can find his/her way home if he/she gets lost. A collar with identification attached is strongly recommended for all cats, indoors or outdoors.

We hope that every adoption is permanent. However, if you experience problems with your new pet that you feel cannot be corrected, please return the pet to us.