Before you meet

Questions to ask before adopting a cat

Getting to know a cat means learning about the small things: where they like to rest, how they play and what helps them feel comfortable. Ask the person who knows their current routine.

By the MeetYourRescue team · Updated November 6, 2026

Start with the person who knows the pet

Use the profile’s contact instructions. For a courtesy listing, the shelter or rescue may only publish the post while an owner or foster caregiver handles enquiries. Confirm who can answer your questions and whether the pet is still available.

You don’t need to ask everything at once. Pick the questions that matter most for your household, and describe what you can realistically offer.

Question 1

What is a normal day like for this cat?

Ask when they eat, play, seek company and prefer to be left alone. Tell the caregiver how much time you spend at home and whether you want an active playmate or a quieter companion.

Question 2

How do they respond to touch and unfamiliar people?

Ask what kind of contact they choose, what they avoid and how they show they need space. A shy first meeting does not explain their whole personality; ask what the caregiver has seen over time.

Question 3

What are their litter-box habits?

Ask about the litter, box type and placement they use now, and whether there have been any problems. If there have, ask what was investigated and what guidance or follow-up you would need. Don’t assume a change of home will resolve an unexplained issue.

Question 4

Have they lived with other cats, dogs or children?

Ask for the circumstances, not just a yes or no. Have they shared a home, or only seen one another at a distance? Check whether they have a bonded companion who needs to be adopted with them and discuss introductions for your household.

Question 5

What kind of home and spaces are they used to?

Ask about their indoor or outdoor history, scratching surfaces, hiding places and favourite ways to play. Describe your space and ask what setup would make the first days manageable, including a quiet place to settle.

Question 6

What care should continue after adoption?

Ask for food and feeding details, available veterinary records and any ongoing care instructions. Confirm what the adoption fee covers and which follow-up appointments or costs you should plan for. Take individual medical questions to a veterinarian.

Question 7

How do we arrange a meeting, and who can help afterwards?

Confirm the cat’s current location, who handles the adoption and what the application involves. Ask about post-adoption support and what to do if you are struggling to help them settle in.

When the answer is “we don’t know”

Missing information is not a positive or negative answer. Ask what has been observed, what is an estimate and what hasn’t been tried. A shelter stay or brief meeting cannot show every part of life at home.

If something is essential for your household, say so. Ask whether there is a sensible way to learn more and what support is available. It is reasonable to take time or decide a different pet’s needs are a better fit.

A first message you can make your own

I’d like to learn more about [pet’s name]. My home includes [people/pets], and I can offer [space/routine]. What have you noticed about their comfort with other animals and their litter-box routine? What would you suggest we plan before a meeting?

Use the contact method provided for that pet. MeetYourRescue doesn’t send this message or arrange the adoption.