Hello. Morris here. You may know me as the most famous shelter cat of all time, and I don’t say that lightly. Adopt‑a‑Cat Month, in the month of June, is very close to my whiskers, because my nine lives started with one very smart human who decided to adopt from a shelter.
So, if you’re wondering how to adopt a cat, where to go, what it costs, or how to help your new feline feel calm and confident from day one, curl up and read on.
This is an extremely small edit, but in all the other blogs we’ve reviewed this sentence is broken by a comma, not a period. Should this be “Hello, Morris here.”?
Across all of the ask Morris blogs on the 9Lives site, there is variation in how Morris greets the audience. I’m okay leaving this as is to continue that variation!
Why Adopt‑a‑Cat Month Matters
Let’s start with the obvious: shelter cats are the best cats. (I may be biased. I am also correct.)
When you adopt from a local shelter, you’re giving a cat a second chance at the Good Life—the kind with a cozy couch, good food, and someone who understands that 3 a.m. zoomies are non‑negotiable.
Shelter cats come in all shapes, ages, and personalities:
- Playful kittens for adoption ready to pounce into your heart
- Calm adults who already understand litter box etiquette
- Wise seniors who specialize in naps and emotional support
If you need proof, I insist you read this excellent piece written about cats like me: Ask Morris: Why Are Shelter Cats the Best Cats?
How to Adopt a Cat: Morris Keeps It Simple
Humans love to overthink things. Cats do not. Here’s the short version of how to adopt a cat, Morris‑style:
- Decide What Kind of Cat Fits Your Home: Kittens are adorable chaos. Adult cats are cool professionals. Senior cats are masters of relaxation and routine. All are excellent choices—it just depends on your lifestyle. (Helpful hint: older cats are often overlooked, but they’re fantastic companions and great at helping humans reduce stress.)
- Where to Adopt a Cat: Your local shelter or rescue organization is the best place to start. Shelter staff can help match you with a cat whose personality fits your home—because chemistry matters.
- How Much Is It to Adopt a Cat: Adoption fees vary, but they usually cover spaying or neutering, vaccinations, and health checks. Translation: you’re getting a healthy cat and doing a good thing. That’s what I call a win‑win.
Bringing Your New Cat Home: Keep It Calm, Please
Moving day can be a lot for a cat (new smells, new sounds, new everything). The goal is simple: help your new friend feel safe and confident.
Start with:
- A quiet space
- A comfy bed
- Food that tastes great and supports good health
This guide is one I personally recommend for humans who want to get it right: How to Make a Cat Feel Comfortable in a New Home. Trust me—when cats feel calm, everyone wins.
Good Food = A Very Good Start
Every cat deserves food that supports good health at every life stage. (I insist on this.)
Here’s how to match food to your newly adopted star:
- Kittens for adoption need extra nutrition to grow strong and playful: 9Lives™ Kitten Food
- Senior cats benefit from meals that support aging gracefully: 9Lives™ Senior Shreds Wet Cat Food with Real Ocean Fish & Tuna in Sauce
- Adult cats of all ages enjoy balanced, tasty everyday meals: 9Lives™ Dry Cat Food
Good food helps cats feel secure, settle in faster, and live their nine lives with confidence—just like me.
Adoption Changes Lives
Adopting a cat isn’t just about giving a home—it’s about building a bond. Studies show cats can help support reducing stress, improve routines, and make homes feel warmer (emotionally and literally, if the cat chooses your lap).
So, this Adopt‑a‑Cat Month, I encourage you to visit a shelter, meet a few whiskered personalities, and maybe, just maybe, find your Morris.
Because every cat deserves: Good Food. Good Health. A Good Home. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a nap scheduled.