Adopting a cat from a shelter is one of the most rewarding choices a pet parent can make—but unfortunately, outdated myths still hold some people back. Misconceptions about health, behavior, and age often overshadow the fact that shelter cats are just as loving and loyal as any other.
In this guide, we’re clearing up five of the most common myths about shelter cats and showing why they deserve a second look—and a second chance.
Myth #1: Shelter Cats Are Unhealthy or Have Behavioral Problems
This is one of the biggest myths—and one of the least accurate. While some cats arrive at shelters due to medical issues or behavior challenges, many are surrendered for reasons that have nothing to do with their health or temperament. These can include housing restrictions, financial hardship, or family changes.
Most shelters provide thorough veterinary evaluations, vaccinations, and behavioral assessments before placing cats for adoption. While the shelter environment can cause temporary stress-related behaviors (like hiding or reduced appetite), many of these issues fade quickly once a cat is in a stable home.
Myth #2: Shelters Don’t Have Purebred Cats
While you’re more likely to find mixed-breed cats in shelters, purebreds do show up—often through owner surrenders or rescue transfers. From Siamese to Persians, it’s entirely possible to find a specific breed through local shelters or breed-specific rescues.
Online tools like Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet allow you to search by breed, age, and location, making it easier to find the cat you’re looking for without turning to a breeder.
Myth #3: Older Cats Can’t Adapt or Bond With People
There’s a misconception that adult and senior cats are set in their ways or struggle to form attachments. In reality, older cats often adjust beautifully to new homes and can form deep, lasting bonds with their adopters.
Unlike kittens, adult cats come with established personalities, so you know what you’re getting. They’re typically calmer, litter-trained, and less likely to engage in high-energy antics. Many older cats are grateful for a second chance and will reward your care with quiet companionship.
Myth #4: Adopting a Cat Means You Can’t Travel
It’s entirely possible to adopt a cat and still maintain a lifestyle that includes travel. Many pet parents manage both by planning ahead.
Options like in-home pet sitters, professional boarding services, or support from friends and family can help make it manageable to care for a cat while still taking trips. In fact, many cats thrive with consistent care in their own environment, even when you’re away. Being a cat parent and living an active life can absolutely go hand-in-hand.
Myth #5: Adopting a Kitten Is Better Than Adopting an Adult Cat
Kittens are adorable, but they’re also a lot of work. They need constant supervision, training, and socialization to grow into well-adjusted adult cats.
Adult cats, on the other hand, tend to be more independent, already trained, and better suited to a variety of household types, including those with children or other pets. They’re often more relaxed and are just as affectionate as their younger counterparts. Plus, by adopting an adult cat, you’re giving a second chance to a pet that might otherwise be overlooked.
FAQs
How do I prepare for traveling with a cat at home? Make arrangements for your cat’s care before your trip. This could include hiring a pet sitter, using a boarding facility, or asking a trusted friend or family member to help. Leave clear instructions for feeding, litter box care, and any medications your cat may need.
Are older cats harder to care for? Not necessarily. In many cases, older cats are easier to care for than kittens. They tend to be calmer and less likely to engage in destructive behavior. While some may need more frequent vet visits, many seniors are low-maintenance companions.
Can I find healthy cats in shelters? Yes. Many cats in shelters are perfectly healthy and receive routine vet care before adoption. Shelters often provide vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and health screenings to ensure cats are ready for their new homes.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for adopting cats? The 3-3-3 rule is a general guideline for what to expect when adopting a cat: 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to settle in, and 3 months to feel fully at home. Every cat is different, but this timeline helps pet parents understand the adjustment process.
What should you not do when adopting a cat? Avoid forcing interactions or overwhelming your new cat. Give them time and space to adjust. Don’t skip the vet visit, ignore behavioral cues, or assume they’ll adjust instantly. Patience, consistency, and gentle care are key.
Key Takeaway
Shelter cats are just as loving, healthy, and adaptable as any other cats. By looking past outdated myths and focusing on their individual personalities and potential, you can give a deserving cat a fresh start—and gain a loyal companion for years to come.
And while many cats from shelters receive a clean bill of health at adoption, unexpected illnesses or injuries can happen at any stage of life. That’s why adding cat insurance can be a smart step in helping protect your new pet’s health—and your peace of mind. Coverage can help with the cost of vet visits, diagnostics, treatments, and more, so you can focus on helping your adopted cat thrive in their new home.
More About Spot Pet Insurance
Pet insurance can help provide financial assistance for covered veterinary care in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible. Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:
Covers Unexpected Veterinary Costs: Spot pet insurance plans help cover the eligible costs of unexpected veterinary treatments, such as emergency surgeries, X-rays, and prescription medications for covered conditions.
Customizable Plans: Choose your annual limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible from a range of options, and create the plan that will fit the needs of your pet and your budget.
Peace of Mind: With Spot pet insurance plans, pet parents can know that they can provide the best care for their pet with less worry about the cost.
To learn more about Spot plans or to get a free quote, click here.
With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
Common. “12 Common Myths about Cat Adoption Debunked.” Purrista Cat Café, 6 May 2025, www.purristacatcafe.com/blog/cat-adoption-myths-debunked.
“Debunking 8 Common Myths about Adopting Shelter Pets.” Clark Road Animal Clinic, 2024, clarkroadanimalclinic.com/services/cats/blog/debunking-8-common-myths-about-adopting-shelter-pets.html.
“Myth vs. Fact: Debunking Common Misconceptions about Adopting a Cat.” Duxbury Animal Hospital, 2024, www.duxburyanimalhospital.com/services/cats/blog/myth-vs-fact-debunking-common-misconceptions-about-adopting-cat.
