When we’re looking to adopt a new pet, many of us naturally gravitate toward kittens and puppies. Younger animals tend to get the most attention—and the quickest adoptions—while their senior counterparts wait months or even years for a home. In fact, senior pets are ten times less likely to be adopted than younger animals.
This hesitation often stems from misconceptions: concerns about medical costs, fears that senior pets are “too sick,” or assumptions that older animals are less affectionate. Sadly, these beliefs leave many wonderful pets overlooked in shelters.
November is both Senior Pet Month and Adopt a Senior Pet Month, making it the perfect time to raise awareness about the challenges senior pets face—and to highlight the many benefits of welcoming an older pet, especially senior cats, into your family.
Why Senior Cats Are Often Overlooked
1. Misconceptions About Health and Activity
As cats age, they undergo physical changes just like we do. While some may slow down or require a modified routine, many senior cats remain playful, curious, and active. A proper diet, regular vet checkups, and gentle, shorter play sessions can help senior cats maintain a healthy and fulfilling life.
A common misconception is that senior pets automatically come with high medical costs. While older cats may need a little extra monitoring, not all senior cats develop serious health issues—and many remain stable and healthy for years.
2. Misunderstood Personalities
People often assume senior cats are grumpy or less affectionate. In reality, many senior cats become more loving as they age, seeking comfort, routine, and companionship. If an older cat does show irritability, it’s often due to an underlying factor—such as discomfort, stress, or an unfamiliar environment—not their personality.
Every pet, regardless of age, needs time and patience to adjust to a new home. Senior cats are no different.
3. Fear of “Not Enough Time”
One of the biggest reasons people avoid adopting senior cats is the fear of losing them too soon. But there is never a guarantee of lifespan—at any age. Many senior cats live long, healthy lives and bring years of joy to their families.
4. Assuming Senior Pets Were Surrendered for Behaviour or Health Problems
Many adopters believe that senior cats must have been surrendered due to severe behavioural or medical issues, but that’s often far from the truth. Many older cats end up in shelters due to circumstances beyond their control, such as:
- Their owner passing away
- A family adding children or pets without proper introductions
- Moving to a place that doesn’t allow pets
- Life changes that force rehoming
Most senior cats are surrendered through no fault of their own.
And even when behaviour changes do appear, they’re often rooted in something solvable: pain, stress, environmental changes, or unmet needs. It’s important to approach behaviour challenges with curiosity and support—working with your vet, a cat behaviourist, or an animal communicator to better understand the cat’s experience.
Benefits of Adopting a Senior Cat
Senior cats have so much to offer, and their age often makes them exceptional companions. Here are some compelling reasons to consider adopting one:
1. Their Personalities Are Fully Developed
You know exactly who you’re adopting—no surprises. Shelters and foster homes can tell you how each cat interacts with people, other animals, and kids.
2. They’re Often Lower Maintenance
Senior cats tend to have calmer demeanours. They enjoy peaceful routines, gentle playtimes, and cozy naps rather than climbing your curtains or zooming at 3 a.m.
3. You’re Giving Them a Second Chance
Senior cats often wait the longest for homes. By adopting one, you’re offering love, comfort, and dignity during their golden years. Their gratitude is unmistakable—they bond deeply, love wholeheartedly, and appreciate the warmth of a safe home.
4. You Know Their Background and Needs
With older cats, behaviour and health histories are usually known—either from previous owners or from time spent in foster care. This makes it easier to find a cat that fits your household and reduces the likelihood of unexpected challenges.
About Purrfect Seniors
At Purrfect Seniors, we help senior cats find loving forever homes by removing the barriers that often stand in their way. Through our sponsorship program, we cover adoption fees, ongoing medical costs, and provide continued support to adopters—ensuring every senior cat receives the best possible care.
November is the perfect time to consider adopting a senior cat—or to celebrate the older pet you already love. Share their story, raise awareness, and give them a little extra affection this month. By educating others about how wonderful senior pets are, we can help improve adoption rates and give more senior cats the second chance they deserve.
www.purrfectseniors.ca
Email: info@purrfectseniors.ca
Phone: (519) 707-2655
