Adopt a Cat in Austin: How to Choose the Right Cat for Your Home and Lifestyle

We’re so glad you’re considering adopting a cat —you’re about to discover all the love, affection, and companionship a cat can bring into your life. While adopting is a noble act, it’s not something you should rush into. It’s important to first consider your current situation and how adding a new family member might change your routines, responsibilities, or even your lifestyle.

In general, it's essential to evaluate the space you have available (and if you’re renting, check with your landlord), whether you have other pets that are social and could welcome a new companion, or if there are children or people in your household with allergies or health conditions that could be affected by a cat.

First Things First: Do You Have Enough Space?

If you want to adopt a cat, you don’t need a big house or a backyard, but you should be mindful of your space so you can choose a cat whose personality best fits your living situation.

If you live in a small apartment or rent a single room, a calm, older cat is often the best fit for that type of environment. On the other hand, if you have a larger space, active cats might be a better match, since they love exploring and roaming around.

Your Lifestyle

This might be the most important point—and one many people don’t consider until it’s too late, and things just don’t work out with their new pet.

If you’re looking for a cat mainly for companionship, look for one that’s calm, friendly, and easily adapts to being around people.

But if you love playing, interacting, and setting up cat towers and wall furniture for them to climb and explore, then an energetic and playful cat is definitely the way to go.

Although it’s not often mentioned, the chemistry or connection you feel with your new pet is key to making the transition smoother for both of you.

Who Else Lives With You?

If you have children, we encourage you to bring them to Sydney’s Lounge once we open to see how they interact with the cats. Sometimes, a child might connect with a specific cat right away.

However, it could go the other way—the child may not be interested or might not like cats at all. Forcing the relationship could backfire.

If you have other pets at home, that’s also an important factor. You need to be sure your current pets can get along with a new kitten. Consider both their personalities and make sure there’s potential for harmony.

Basic Health Considerations

If you adopt a cat, it’s important to check its health. At our sanctuary, you can rest assured that every cat has received veterinary care, and we hope you’ll continue with any necessary vaccinations or medications on schedule.

The 3-3-3 Rule

Set realistic expectations! Give your new cat time to adjust to their new environment and routine, and to get to know you and the rest of your family—including any pets.

The 3-3-3 rule helps guide the adaptation process through 3 stages: 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months.

• First 3 Days: This is the “detox period.” Your cat may have come from a very different space—larger or smaller—and everything will feel new. Some cats may be overstimulated at first. If they seem nervous or hyperactive, be patient and let them settle in.

• After 3 Weeks: Your cat is likely adjusting to your routine and the daily rhythm of your home. They probably even recognize meal times by now! This is a good time (or even from day one) to give them a space or a few items they can scratch, nap on, or claim as their own.

• After 3 Months: Most cats know they’re home by this point. What once seemed like a long process now feels natural—you and your cat have adjusted to your new routine, and you’re officially family.

Don’t Forget About Safety

If you want to adopt a cat it’s important to make sure there are no dangerous objects or substances within your cat’s reach. Some cats can be very curious and might play with bottles that could spill cleaning products or other liquids that are harmful if ingested.

You should also secure all entry and exit points, like doors and windows—especially during the first few days of adaptation when your cat might feel disoriented and try to find a way out quickly.

Recommendations

Come visit us! Once Sydney's Lounge is open this year, cats for adoptions will be available, we’ll guide you in choosing your new best friend. 

Ideally, from the very first day you bring your cat home, you should have their bed, fresh water, food, and litter box ready. Our goal is to make the transition from our shelter to their new space as smooth and comfortable as possible, so everything flows better for both of you.

Remember, we make these suggestions because our mission is to help every cat find a home for life. It breaks our hearts when cats end up back on the streets due to situations that could have been prevented with a little guidance and preparation.

Our goal is to find people who are ready—both emotionally and practically—to open their homes and their hearts to a new adventure buddy. 

Help us make this dream come true. We are currently working on building our sanctuary—a magical, welcoming space where rescued cats can live cage-free, surrounded by love and care. Very soon, you'll be able to meet your next best friend while enjoying a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Donate here https://gofund.me/951641c5 — whether big or small, your donation comes from the heart and goes directly to those who need it most. You’re helping us build a safe home for our feline friends… and giving a second chance to those who have no voice.