American Human Celebrates Adopt-A-Cat Month with Renewed Plea to Rescue Cats
American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, celebrates Adopt-A-Cat Month each June and this year, American Humane is urging animal lovers to celebrate by visiting their local animal shelter and adopting a cat – or two.
“Shelters are swamped in the best of times, but now that Americans are transitioning back to the office after more than a year of remote work, shelters are reporting increases in owner surrenders,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane. “This Adopt-a-Cat Month, we hope you will become a friend to a feline in need.”
June marks the height of “kitten season,” when numerous litters of kittens are born and often end up in animal shelters. Not only are thousands of newborn kittens joining the millions of cats already in shelters, but a lack of foot traffic, funding and supplies at many shelters struggling to maintain operations during the Covid-19 pandemic further threaten these beautiful animals and their hopes to find a forever home. Sadly, it is estimated that more than 70 percent of cats that enter US animal shelters are euthanized because they are never adopted.
According to a study by the American Pet Products Association, more than 12 million US households got a new pet in 2020. If owner surrenders continue to increase, the need in shelters will only rise.
Adopt-A-Cat Month is part of a larger effort by American Humane to help our feline friends and solve the unique challenges and issues they face. Although cats have often been referred to as America’s “Most Popular Pet,” they receive less veterinary care, have less research dedicated to their unique health/behavioral issues, are more likely to be feral and are more likely to be euthanized in shelters than dogs.
“This month, you can save a life or two, while improving your own,” said Ganzert. “Your new best friend is patiently waiting for you to bring them home.”
American Humane’s Cat Adoption Checklist outlines helpful tips and other considerations.