Charity in Canada Makes Urgent Plea To Find Home for Senior Cats Whose Owner Passed Away
It's always heartening to see the efforts of charitable organizations to support animals in need.
TikToker @angrafus3 is such an advocate and desperately tries to find a new home for two senior cats, Shiloh and Belle, after their senior owner suddenly passed away. Let's find out more.
Aw, these poor cats.
Related: California Shelter Hopes To Find Loving Home for 3 Cat Siblings Whose Owner Passed Away
Shiloh and Belle are both 16 years old and are located in Ottawa, Ontario. They're super sweet, love to snuggle, and despite their old age, got a clean bill from the vet.
If you're in Canada, live in or around Ottawa, and are interested in adopting these sweet girls, you can send an email to: hello@mygrandfatherscat.ca.
Do Senior Cats Have a Hard Time Getting Adopted?
The answer is yes, unfortunately. Just like with senior dogs, many potential adopters prefer younger cats to older ones. But there are other reasons as well.
Senior cats may be surrendered to shelters due to the death or illness of their previous owners, just like Shiloh and Belle, and some adopters might worry about the cat's ability to form new bonds after experiencing loss.
However, cats are quite resilient, and many senior cats adapt well to their new surroundings.
Another reason might be that potential adopters may hesitate to choose a senior cat due to the perception that they have a shorter lifespan. However, many senior cats can live happy and healthy lives for several more years.
Then there might be some people who are concerned about potential medical issues with senior cats. While older cats may have specific health needs, many are in good health and can be wonderful companions with proper care.
As mentioned before, many adopters prefer kittens, associating them with playfulness and a longer time together. Senior cats may be seen as less playful, even though they can still enjoy interactive activities.
Older cats may have established habits or behaviors that potential adopters perceive as difficult to change. However, senior cats often adapt well to new environments and routines.
In addition, shelters and rescue organizations often have a higher influx of kittens and younger cats, making it more challenging for senior cats to attract attention.
How To Raise Awareness and Advocate for Senior Cat Adoption
Raising awareness and advocating for the adoption of senior cats involves engaging with the community, leveraging various platforms, and emphasizing the unique benefits of adopting older feline companions.
You could partner with local animal shelters and rescue organizations to organize events, share information, and feature senior cats in need of adoption, as well as host special adoption events focused on senior cats, and offer incentives such as reduced adoption fees or starter kits.
Another option is to create engaging content by sharing stories, photos, and videos on social media of senior cats in need of homes, highlighting their personalities, wisdom, and the joy they can bring to a household.
Speaking of social media, you could utilize relevant hashtags on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, such as #AdoptASeniorCat, #SeniorCatsRock, and #SeniorCatAdoption.
Last but not least, you could set up booths at community events, farmers' markets, or pet-friendly gatherings to distribute information, answer questions, and showcase senior cats available for adoption.
Our Take
Despite a few setbacks senior cats often face when it comes to adoption, there is a growing awareness of the benefits of adopting senior pets. Senior cats often come with established personalities, are calmer, and may require less active play, making them suitable for adopters with a quieter lifestyle.
Efforts are being made by animal welfare organizations to promote the adoption of senior cats by hosting special adoption events, reducing adoption fees, and launching education campaigns that highlight the joys of adopting older pets.
That being said, it's always better to help an animal in need by following the mantra: Adopt, don't shop.
Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos. Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.
