There are more cats than dogs in animals shelters, so it’s important to think creatively to boost cat adoptions. With so many cats looking for homes, 
creating a memorable impression with potential adopters that will grab their attention increases chances for a permanent home.
Here are some ideas to consider to boost cat adoptions:
- Business cards for the cats. It’s important to always be sure interested parties your name and how to reach you, a business card provides that information for us, why not for homeless pets? Make sure the cat’s picture showcases his appearance (comparable to a professional “headshot” for humans. Include his name, ID #, the link to his online “profile”, shelter name and address and some of his personality traits.
- Have an event to showcase your felines. Black cats are often slow to get adopted, why not schedule a Black Cat Black Tie event to showcase the elegance of basic black? Decorate the cat’s cages, and if they’ll tolerate them, pop a spiffy bow tie on the males and a pretty collar on the females to show how truly beautiful black cats are!
- Try pairing up the cats. This can work especially well with kittens. People will see them playing, and rather than separate them they very possibly will go home with both cats.
- Have a quiet, comfortable “meet and greet” location. Many cats are nervous in a shelter setting and meeting potential adopters can be stressful for them. If possible, have a separate area with little to no foot traffic or noise for potential adopters to interact with cats they may consider adopting. This gives the cat(s) a chance to relax and show their potential adopter how great they are!
- Write creative Petfinder/Adopt-a-Pet posts. It’s important to have the best pictures possible of the pet to show potential adopters, and many people respond well to humor, especially if it corresponds to the pet’s natural personality. Cats have lots of personality and humor, so be sure that’s reflected in their descriptions on Petfinder.com, adoptapet.com and other cat adoption sites.
- Have KittenGram deliveries to local businesses. A local shelter has started periodic KittenGram deliveries where adoptable kittens are “delivered” to local businesses. This gives the kittens some socialization, adds a shot of fun for employees and helps spread the word about the kittens to increase their chances for adoption.
- Showcase cats on social media. It’s important for shelters and rescue groups to be active on social media to build awareness of the adoptable cats they have available. Posting good pictures of cats, along with a description of their personality on Facebook and Twitters helps tremendously in getting pets adopted. Many photographers will donate some of their time to taking pictures of adoptable pets. Check with volunteers for your shelter or rescue to see if there’s a photographer that would be willing to help.
Written by Karen
