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  • Blog
  • August 8 2024

Celebrating Sensational Seniors – why older cats make wonderful pets

Here at Raystede we often find that it’s the older cats in our care that can take a bit longer to rehome than the youngsters. But while we are obvious advocates for adoption of all types of animals, breeds and ages, we do have a soft spot for some of our seniors and here we share a little more about why these cats make wonderful companions.

You know their character

While adopting a little kitten can be lots of fun, they are only just beginning to discover their likes and dislikes and developing their own unique personality. Adopting an older cat means they are a little more self-assured and our Cattery Team can advise on their characteristics. Whether you’re looking for a lap cat or a chatter-box, they can help guide you to find the purrfect match!

You know their character

While adopting a little kitten can be lots of fun, they are only just beginning to discover their likes and dislikes and developing their own unique personality. Adopting an older cat means they are a little more self-assured and our Cattery Team can advise on their characteristics. Whether you’re looking for a lap cat or a chatter-box, they can help guide you to find the purrfect match!

They don’t need as much supervision

A younger cat will often be a ball of energy and will enjoy play and stimulation to keep them occupied. An older cat, however, is likely to be more relaxed and while they still need enrichment and stimulation, you won’t be reaching for the toys quite so often as they are more likely to just want to snooze and relax!

They can be ideal for families

While children might enjoy the fun of playing with cute kittens, young cats can often get excited during playtime and can sometimes misplace their cheeky hunting instincts onto nipping little fingers and toes. Older cats tend to be calmer and might be used to living with young children and so will know when to retreat should things get a little boisterous.

You’re giving them a second chance of happiness

Older cats can find themselves at Raystede for a number of reasons, sometimes its due to the ill health or death of their owner. By choosing to adopt a senior cat you’re giving them a second chance of happiness as they enter their golden years. They may be a little older but they still have plenty of love to give.

By adopting you allow us to help more cats

Our rescue services are stretched more than ever with a growing waiting list we have lots of cats waiting to be admitted into our care. By adopting one of our senior residents, you are allowing us to help another cat and offer them the opportunity to find their furr-ever home too!

Rehoming an older cat can be such a joy, as Raystede supporter Denise discovered when she took home an overlooked but incredibly loving cat named Bella.

“Bella has turned out to be the most loving, friendly and sweetest cat I’ve ever had – and I’ve had quite a few!

If you are seriously thinking of adopting a cat, I urge you not to pass over an older one. They are already house-trained, calmer and really do seem grateful that you’ve taken them into your home and given them a chance.

By adopting you allow us to help more cats

Our rescue services are stretched more than ever with a growing waiting list we have lots of cats waiting to be admitted into our care. By adopting one of our senior residents, you are allowing us to help another cat and offer them the opportunity to find their furr-ever home too!

Rehoming an older cat can be such a joy, as Raystede supporter Denise discovered when she took home an overlooked but incredibly loving cat named Bella.

“Bella has turned out to be the most loving, friendly and sweetest cat I’ve ever had – and I’ve had quite a few!

If you are seriously thinking of adopting a cat, I urge you not to pass over an older one. They are already house-trained, calmer and really do seem grateful that you’ve taken them into your home and given them a chance.

Thinking of adopting? Visit our adoption page to see if one of our seniors could be right for you:

Adopt a cat
Adopt a cat FAQs
Cat care guide