Local SPCA won't let me adopt

I volunteer at the local SPCA, which happens to be a no-kill shelter. I recently have played or "socialized" with a male kitten that I later decided that I wanted to adopt. I filled out the application, only to be later told that they I couldn't adopt him because I checked off that he would be kept both indoors and outdoors (but mostly indoors). Apparently, the first thing they look at when screening cat adoption applicants is whether or not the cat will be 100% indoors. Their reason for this is because statistically indoor cats live much longer lives.

I understand that there are many dangers present outdoors for cats. However, with restraint, and when given a choice, many cats seem to enjoy life more if they can experience some of their waking hours outdoors.

I really don't have a question or problem here, I just wanted to rant about the SPCA's policy and adoption process, which I obviously do not agree with. I'll probably check out one of the local rescue shelters that will look past the indoor/outdoor issue before pulling the trigger on an adoption.

Although I understand their need for caution, I wonder about their tactics? As I have both indoor/outdoor kitties, I have always believed that it depends on the person's living situation/location and other factors about whether or not to have the cat go outside. I have never heard about a shelter refusing a home on those grounds, so there is a first for me.

Exactly. I have a sizable house with a nice backyard, and I have no landlord issues since I own. Of course, I could lie to get a cat or kitten that I want, but I'm not going to stoop to that level.

Another issue that I have with this shelter (I'm in TX ) is that it seems the dogs are spoiled when compared to the cats. The dogs are constantly walked and played with, allowing them to run around and get exercise, whereas the cats don't have that luxury. I've seen a male cat (the type of cat that indoubtably would not stand for being indoors 24-7) there jumping around in his cage trying to get some activity.

I have never run across a shelter with this rule, but I know people have very strong opinions on the subject. You're obviously an animal lover. I wish you the best.

Grinder,

That's too bad they feel that way--cats were outside MANY, MANY years before even being tamed by man so I'm just shocked. I guess if you lived in the city I could see their thinking but otherwise I'm at a loss.

If it were me I'd just go elsewhere and to be honest if a lot of their actions began to go against my beliefs I'd probably have to consider volunteering my time elsewhere. The whole point is to find these creatures suitable homes where the folks will love them and OBVIOUSLY you possess that so don't let them get you down---you more than qualify, just not by their "little standards" so just look around, I'm sure there's a great, no kill feline shelter in your area.

I love the attitude in my local no kill kitty shelter, anyone who loves cats qualifies for the most part, no judgemental people--it's great.

Good luck hon!

Elyse

There are several reasons why some animal shelters have that policy.
1.People (not saying you )are stupid and do not have thier pets neutered. Allowing them to go out and reproduce
2. In some areas of the country there are animals that prey on pets(coyotes,racoons, ect.) They simply care for the wellfare of these cats! Can you blame them?
3. Outdoor cats are more prone to disease.
4.There are evil people who don't like cats and they do nasty things to them.
5.Cars!cars!Cars!

I've had outdoor cats. They don't live long lives.I've had one that died from cancer,one that was hit by a car,and one that was killed by a dog. As much as we would love to give them freedom it's not a safe world out there. Not even in the country.

There are valid arguments on both sides. Yet, we are all animal lovers, and want the best for our animals. Personally, I'd rather see a cat in a home with loving care than a shelter- even if allowed outdoors, despite the fact that my own cats have never been outdoors. A happy medium could be achieved by building an enclosure.

We could debate this issue to it's literal death but I don't see the point. There are pros and cons to both and I agree w/ them all, it's hard not to when so much comes into play.

I had a cat, who realistically due to unknown pre-existing health conditions, lived to be 2.5 yrs old versus the mere 6 months cats w/ his condition are EXPECTED to live and guess what? He was an OUTDOOR cat, lol--go figure. He enjoyed his life and had many "kitty" friends, I couldn't take that away from him for ANYTHING. Quality of life for my creatures IS so important to me. Cats need stimulation and that's how that is. All creatures have predators to by the way, and most of them are instinctively able to get away from them. AGAIN this depends on YOUR area/your cat/your situation. If you live, say, in the mountains? LOL-I would probably keep my cat INDOORS for sure. Just common sense stuff really. I'm still sorry a good home was passed up based on THAT alone though, I still think/feel/know it was just wrong.

I think if you live in a safe neighborhood I must say I just don't see the issue w/ it provided you're cat is under regular/normal vet care and has been properly altered. If you are out in the city or in a area quite near a city w/ a lot of "main drags" it's probably not in your cats best interest to be outdoors, people should have the freedom and ability to make that decision and if you can't trust them to do what's right for their pet than you'll find that NO pet will get a home, lol...just a small point.

E~

Grinder,

I know they told you no, but you volunteer there so talk them again! You've obviously bonded with the kitty, so they have to know you'll give kitty a good home. It is possible to let kitty run outdoors in a responsible manner. I have two that love going outdoors. I even talked to a local behaviorist who RECOMMENDED that I let one out as often as possible...b/c he was so active and needed that much stimulation. This cat was having behavior issues. It was impossible for me to play with him enough - letting him outside to catch bugs and stuff was the best option. Of course I worry about him, but I've supervised him outdoors enough to know he'll be ok.

It's unfortunate that we have to screen people who want to adopt pets. I'm sure you know all about the irresponsible owners. Unfortunately, rescue groups let their personal opinions on what's best come into play...like the indoor/outdoor issue.

Try again. And you know, there are some people who consider their backyard their second living room....

I have just been rejected when I attempted to adopt a cat.  The vet stated that my cats (2) are the healthiest cats she has seen in years.  I have lived in my home for years, in this one for 6 years.  They were very upset when I told them that I let my cats out May-Oct. when the bird feeder wasn't out.  

The worker was pretty emotional about it.  She looked at me like I was jack the ripper for letting my cats go outside.  I just think this is a quality of life issue.  I can see arguments on both sides.  Why is it that only one point of view allows you to adopt a cat?  I truly feel my cats are the luckiest ones since I have over 50 years of experience and unlimited resources and a kind adult child living at home to help me care for them.  Is it really better for the cat to sit in that cage wasting away its lifetime?

Just wanted to comment on the one commenter with the abysmal record with letting your cats outdoors.  You must live in a really bad place.  I have had cats for 53 years with outdoor access and just lost my first cat.  I had one live to be 23 and another to 21and 3/4.  I had four others die from old age or other normal infirmity. 

Just lost my first one at 7 years old.  I am told by one neighbor that our new neighbor, the police officer, is in the habit of shooting cats.  My cat has never been seen out of her yard, but could have once crossed the street to his yard.  Can't do much about this.  So, if you have a new neighbor, maybe ask them how they feel about your cats being outside....maybe that should determine how cats are treated in part.  I think the people in your area may be the most important factor.  I do worry about people wanting to torture cats now that I am aware of it and am thinking about keeping my next cat inside for this reason alone.  

Also, have seen cats on side of road get hit by cars, but they were always barn cats.  I think barn cats can be full of disease and maybe aren't so careful anymore on the road when in misery.  I wonder if there are statistics on how many healthy cats get hit on the road.  My cats get off the driveway quick when anyone pulls in.  

Welcome to TheCatSite F friga I'm sure you didn't notice that this thread is 13 years old, so the situation was resolved one way or another a long time ago. I hope you'll look around the site and find other threads where you can participate. Just look for the dates when the threads were started. You might also want to introduce yourself in New Cats on the Block.