Adoption FAQ

What will my visit look like?

If there is a wait to adopt, we’ll add you to the list once you arrive. You are welcome to visit local businesses or coffee shops while you wait, and we’ll text you when it’s your turn.  

Once your visit starts, SAFe Rescue will use a conversational approach to adoptions. First, an Adoption Counselor will chat with you to learn more about your family and household and your hopes and expectations around bringing a cat into your life. We will suggest some kitties who suit your needs and expectations. Then we begin the process of meeting the kitties you’re interested in.

As of Saturday, October 1, 2022, face masks are now optional when visiting the Rescue.

Can I make sure I get to meet the kitty I’m interested in?

SAFe has always conducted adoptions on a first come, first served basis: we cannot place holds on cats or kittens.

What if the kitty I want is adopted before I come in?

You can keep an eye on which kitties are still available via our website. If you are waiting to be helped and decide to cancel your visit, just reply “cancel” to the text you receive and your place in line will be canceled.

How long will I have to wait?

There may be times when there is a wait to adopt. SAFe is using software to ensure your wait is as short and convenient as possible. Your wait time depends on the order you arrive and the length of time it takes to complete each visit. While we can’t say precisely how long that will be, you can see an estimate on the waitlist page. To make this process fair for everyone, if you have not returned to the Rescue within ten minutes of being notified that it is your turn, we will need to move to the next person on the list.

Is there a time limit to adopting?

Cats, like their humans, are individuals. Making feline matches does not follow a timeline, and SAFe does not impose a time limit on visits to the Rescue. Some of our special kitties will have more complex histories, and it’s important to us to take the time needed to explain these histories to you completely and to help you create a plan to set up your new kitty for success.

Can I come just to visit the kitties?

Unfortunately, we are not currently able to welcome visitors to come in and meet cats if they are not considering adoption. If you are actively considering adding a kitty to their family, we’ll work to help you find a great match. We also understand that a match doesn’t always happen right away: some prospective adopters may not leave with a cat when they visit. 

Can I purchase supplies for my new cat?

Yes, we’re happy to help you purchase the perfect set-up for your kitty! If you’re adopting, you can shop for what you need at our retail store during your visit. All proceeds from our retail store go back to help more cats in need!

What happens if I’m waiting to be helped, but the Rescue closes before it’s my turn?

We will do our best to accommodate everyone on the list, but if your visit cannot be completed, we will let you know. In that case, we encourage you to come back another day!

What about cats in foster homes? Can I meet them?

If you’re interested in one of our foster home kitties, please email fosteradoptions@seattleareafelinerescue.org. The adoption process begins with a conversation with an Adoption Counselor. If the fostered feline might be a match, you will be put in touch with a foster caregiver to arrange a meet and greet. 

Is there an adoption application? 

We do not have an application. Instead, we use a conversation-based approach to help you find a great match. You’ll begin by speaking with an Adoption Counselor, who will ask you some questions to learn more about your household and what you’re looking for in a feline friend.

Can you place kitties on hold?

Unfortunately, due to the small size of our facility, we are not able to place kitties on hold. (There is another kitty out there waiting to come to safety as soon as a space becomes available.)  

How long will it take to adopt?  

We do same day adoptions and will help adopters on a first come, first served basis. We strive to serve everyone efficiently. We will be with you as soon as we can, and we look forward to helping you find your new feline friend!

What are the adoption fees / what’s included? 

All the cats are microchipped, spayed/neutered, FVRCP vaccinated, and come with a free post-adoption vet exam as well as 30 days of pet insurance with Trupanion. 

  • Kitten under one year*: $175
  • Pair of kittens under one year: $300
  • Cat aged 1 to 9 years:  $125
  • Pair of cats aged 1 to 9 years: $200
  • Cat aged 10 or more years: $50
  • Pair of cats aged 10 or more years: $75

*Can I adopt a single kitten? 

Kittens under 6 months of age need to go to a home with another kitten companion. This is important for their socialization and growth into a well-adjusted adult cat. (Read more about Single Kitten Syndrome.)

I already have a kitty at home. Do I still need to adopt two kittens?  

We encourage you to speak with our Adoption Counselors to discuss whether your feline friend could be a good fit with a single kitten. Single kitten placement depends on a variety of factors, including the kitten’s age and socialization, the resident cat’s experience with other felines, and which kittens are currently available for adoption.

What if I need accommodation?

If you experience a barrier to adoption and need accommodation, please email adoptions@seattleareafelinerescue.org and we will do our best to assist you!

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