Make 2025 Purr-fect: Why Adopting a Cat is the Best New Year Resolution
Happy New Year to all my fellow cat slaves! Whether you’re already serving your meowster overlords and considering expanding your furry kingdom in 2025, or you’re thinking about bringing home your very first meowster as your New Year’s resolution, I wholeheartedly encourage you to consider adopting from a cattery or shelter.
All three of my beloved meowsters—Jyn, Barney, and Mui Mui—were adopted from the SPCA (the Hong Kong equivalent of the RSPCA in the UK). These precious cats deserved a second chance at a loving home, and honestly, I think I’m the real winner here—I ended up with the best cats in the world!
What you will learn from this blog post:
1. Why Adopting A Cat Is The Best New Year Resolution
The start of a new year is all about fresh beginnings, setting meaningful goals, and making positive changes. What better way to embrace 2025 than by opening your home and heart to a furry companion in need? Adopting a cat isn’t just about saving a life—it’s about gaining a loyal friend (and a bossy meowster, of course), a purring stress-reliever, and an endlessly entertaining roommate (or becoming one yourself 😜).
1.1 The Physical & Mental Benefits of Having a Cat
Cats are more than just adorable fluff balls; numerous studies have shown that having a meowster at home improve physical & mental health of cat slaves. Research indicates that owning a cat can significantly enhance physical health. According to a study by the University of Minnesota found that cat owners were 30% less likely to die of a heart attack or stroke compared to non-cat owners. Additionally, the act of petting a cat has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, contributing to improved cardiovascular health. Some even say that cat’s purr has been associated with therapeutic healing effects on human bones and muscles, potentially aiding in the recovery of joint mobility after injury - i have my doubts in this but for sure, I love how my meowsters purr when they’ve been pet and that surely bring me so much joy. Research also supports that petting cats for just 10 minutes can help reduce stress effectively.
And to be honest, just by looking at our meowsters minding their own business (e.g., sitting on our laps, walking all over our keyboards, knocking stuff off shelves, etc…) is just the best past time for catroverts like me.
Cats are more than just adorable fluff balls; numerous studies have shown that having a meowster at home can significantly improve the physical and mental health of their devoted cat slaves. Research indicates that owning a cat can enhance physical health, with a study by the University of Minnesota revealing that cat owners are 30% less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke compared to non-cat owners. Additionally, the simple act of petting a cat has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, contributing to improved cardiovascular health.
Some even claim that a cat's purr—vibrating at frequencies between 20-140 Hz—has therapeutic healing effects on human bones and muscles, potentially aiding in the recovery of joint mobility after injury. I’ll admit, I have my doubts about this one, but I absolutely adore how my meowsters purr when they’re being pampered—it brings me so much joy.
Research also supports that just 10 minutes of petting a cat can effectively reduce stress. And honestly, simply watching our meowsters go about their day—whether they’re sitting on our laps, walking across our keyboards, or knocking things off shelves with zero remorse—is the perfect pastime for proud catroverts like me.
1.2 Giving a Shelter Cat a Second Chance
Many cats in shelters have had difficult pasts—some have been abandoned, some have never experienced the warmth of a loving home. By adopting, you’re giving them a second chance at a safe, caring environment. Every adopted cat means one fewer animal left in a shelter, and that’s a beautiful way to start the year.
As someone who’s adopted all three of my meowsters—Jyn, Barney, and Mui Mui—I can confidently say that adoption isn’t just about what you give; it’s about what you receive in return. These cats have filled my life with love, laughter, and companionship, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
2. Things to Consider before Adopting a Cat
Adopting a cat is a heartwarming and life-changing decision, but it’s also a long-term commitment that requires careful consideration. Before bringing home your new meowster, here are a few key factors to think about to ensure you’re fully prepared for your furry master.
2.1 Time Commitment
Cats may seem independent, but they still need your time and attention. From daily feeding, cleaning litter trays, and playtime to regular vet check-ups, being a cat slave requires consistency and dedication. Kittens, in particular, need even more attention and training.
Ask yourself: Do I have enough time in my daily routine to properly care for a cat?
2.2 Financial Responsibility
Most local shelters either waive adoption fees or charge a small initial adoption fee to cover basic expenses. However, it’s important to remember that owning a cat comes with ongoing costs that extend far beyond the initial fee. These include food, litter, toys, grooming supplies, and regular veterinary care such as vaccinations, health check-ups, and potential emergencies. Additionally, pet insurance is worth considering to help manage unexpected medical expenses and provide peace of mind.
Ask yourself: Am I financially ready to provide a comfortable and healthy life for my cat?
Photo by Pitipat Usanakornkul
2.3 Your Living Space
Curiosity may not literally kill cats, but it can certainly get them into trouble! While legend says they have nine lives, they still need a safe and comfortable environment to thrive. Whether you live in a spacious house or a compact flat, it’s essential to cat-proof your space to prevent accidents and ensure your meowster has places to scratch, climb, and hide.
When we adopted our first cat, Jyn, we were living in an apartment on the 24th floor. To get approved for our adoption request, we had to cat-proof all our windows to demonstrate there was absolutely no way she could squeeze out (we all know our meowsters are practically liquid!) and risk falling. It might not have been the most aesthetically pleasing setup, but it was a tiny sacrifice we were more than happy to make to keep our beloved Jyn safe.
Ask yourself: Is my home cat-friendly, and do I have enough space for a litter tray, food station, and play area?
2.4 Other Pets or Family Members
If you have other pets at home, consider how they might react to a new feline family member. Cats are territorial, and introducing them to other animals requires patience and proper planning. Similarly, ensure everyone in your household is on board with adopting a cat.
Cat allergies are more common than you might think. If you or someone in your household is allergic, it’s essential to address this concern beforehand. While there are ways to manage allergy symptoms—such as air purifiers, regular cleaning, and keeping certain areas cat-free—it’s still something that requires commitment and ongoing effort.
Ask yourself: Are my other pets (or family members) ready for a new cat? Are there any allergies in my household that might make cat ownership challenging?
Photo by Vlada Karpovich
2.5 Lifestyle Compatibility
Are you a frequent traveller or someone who works long hours away from home? While cats are generally more independent than dogs, they still require daily care, attention, and companionship. If you travel often, it’s essential to have reliable cat-sitting arrangements in place. It’s ideal if you have friends, family members, or neighbours you can count on to look after your meowster while you’re away.
If not, you’ll need to explore alternative care options to ensure your cat is happy and well cared for during your absence. For a more in-depth discussion on this topic, check out my other blog post: "The Ultimate Guide to Cat Sitters During the Holiday Season".
Ask yourself: Does my lifestyle align with the needs of a cat?
3. The Adoption Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Adopting a cat is an incredibly rewarding experience, but the process can feel a little daunting if it’s your first time. Don’t worry—I've broken it down into simple steps to help you navigate the journey smoothly and bring your future meowster home with confidence.
3.1 Research and Choose the Right Shelter or Adoption Centre
Start by identifying reputable shelters or adoption centres in your area. Organisations like RSPCA, Cats Protection, or Blue Cross are well-known for their responsible adoption practices in the UK. I’ve included a few links here so you can quickly check them out. Don’t overlook smaller, local shelters—they often have cats in urgent need of loving homes.
I also highly recommend searching Facebook for local shelter pages and adoption communities. These groups are often active, sharing updates about cats available for adoption and providing valuable advice to prospective cat owners.
Tip: Look for shelters that provide health checks, vaccinations, and neutering/spaying services before adoption.
3.2 Decide on the Type of Cat That Suits Your Lifestyle
Think about whether you’d like to adopt a kitten, an adult cat, or even a senior cat. Each comes with unique needs:
Kittens: Energetic, playful, but require lots of attention and training.
Adult Cats: Often settled in their personalities and may need less hands-on care.
Senior Cats: Calmer and more low-maintenance, but may have higher medical needs.
Ask yourself: Do I have the time, space, and resources for the age and energy level of my future cat?
Photo by Vinh Lâm
3.3 Visit the Shelter and Meet the Cats
Schedule a visit to the shelter to meet the cats. Spend time observing and interacting with them to see which one matches your personality and home environment. Sometimes, it’s not about choosing a cat—it’s about letting your meowster choose you!
Tip: Ask the shelter staff about the cat’s history, personality, health, and any special care requirements.
3.4 Complete the Adoption Application and Screening
Most shelters require an adoption application and may perform home checks to ensure your space is safe and cat-friendly. Don’t worry—it’s not about judging your home decor; it’s about ensuring your cat will be safe and comfortable.
Be ready to:
Show proof of identity and address.
Answer questions about your experience with pets and your living environment.
3.5 The Big Day: Bringing Your Cat Home
Before your new meowster arrives, set up their essentials:
Litter tray(s)
Food and water bowls
Scratching post(s)
Toys and enrichment activities
A cozy hiding spot
When it’s time to bring your cat home, make sure you have a secure carrier for the journey. Once home, let your cat settle in at their own pace.
Photo by Visk Clicks
Remember: Be prepared for your new cat to spend a lot of time hiding at first. In those early days—or even weeks—you might wonder if you’ve actually brought a cat home at all! Don’t worry; this is completely normal. Cats are naturally cautious in unfamiliar environments. Give them time, space, food, and love, and they’ll gradually build trust and start exploring their new home.
Remember: Not all cats are lap-cat material, but they will surely show you their trust and affection once they feel safe and familiar in their surroundings.
Tip: Start with one room as their safe space and gradually allow them to explore other areas of your home at their own pace.
3.6 Follow-Up Care and Vet Visit
Even if your cat has already been checked by the shelter's vet, it’s a good idea to schedule a follow-up visit with your local vet within the first few weeks. This ensures they’re settling in well and allows you to address any health concerns early on.
Photo by Gustavo Fring
Ask your vet about:
Vaccinations: Ensure your cat is up to date on all necessary shots.
Parasite Treatments: Prevent fleas, worms, and other parasites.
Microchipping: If your cat isn’t already microchipped, your vet can assist. (It’s mandatory for all house cats in the UK to be microchipped since June 2024!)
4. Final Thoughts: Make Adoption Your Best Decision in 2025
Adopting a cat isn’t just about bringing home a pet—it’s about welcoming a new family member into your life. Whether you’re considering your first meowster or thinking about expanding your furry family, adoption is one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.
Every cat deserves a loving home, a warm spot by the window, and a human who’ll cherish them—quirks, chaos, and all. While it’s true that adopting a cat comes with responsibilities, the unconditional love, companionship, and endless entertainment they bring are worth every effort.
The start of a new year is the perfect time for fresh beginnings. By choosing to adopt a cat in 2025, you’re not just changing their life—you’re enriching your own in ways you can’t yet imagine.
So, if you’ve been on the fence about adopting, take this as your sign. Head to your local shelter, browse adoption platforms, and open your heart to a cat in need.
Trust me—when you hear that first content purr or see your meowster snoozing peacefully in their favourite sunny spot, you’ll know: you made the right choice
