by Carrie Profenno: Author, Coonie Mama & lifelong Mainer
Are you interested in Maine Coon Cat Rescue? That's wonderful. There's nothing like being part of Maine Coon cat adoption through cat rescue.
When I was a young child, we got our first cat. Her name was Nettie, and she was a brown tabby rescue kitty. Nettie was devoted, loving, and ever patient (even when I dressed her in doll clothes!)
There is a special quality to the relationship with a rescued cat. I credit Nettie with sowing the seeds of my lifelong love of cats.
Maine Coon rescues and cat shelters need all the help they can get. There are so many cats in the world who need a good home.
They may be Maine Coons, part-Coon, Maine-Coon look-a-like, or just a terrific cat needing some love!
As cat lovers, we hate to think about gentle, loving cats being alone and waiting for their people to come for them. Kudos go to those people who devote their time and resources to this noble cause!
Are you unsure how to help? If you want to do something, but aren't ready for adoption, there are alternatives. Rescue leagues are dependent on donations.
To help support your local rescue chapter, you could donate just about any cat item. Some ideas would include blankets, beds, litter boxes, cat carriers, litter, food, etc.
Better yet, the local chapter can tell you what they need. Financial support is always appreciated. These Maine Coon rescue donations are tax-deductible, as well.
As a native New Englander (I'm in Maine), I like to follow Only Maine Rescue, located in New Jersey. If they aren't too far from you, check them out!
From their homepage: "We are a 100% volunteer-run/breed-specific rescue group that specializes in the Maine Coon Cat breed. We rescue Maine Coon Cat / Kitten mixes from shelters and unwanted situations. On occasion, we rescue purebred (PB) Maine Coon Cat / Kitten(s)."
One way I support them is by using the Amazon Smile link on their site. It's a handy and easy way to help!
Awesome! Here are a few things to remember if you are ready to adopt a Maine Coon. The cat you adopt will be yours, for life. Rescuing a cat carries the same responsibility as bringing home a new pet in any other way.
She needs love, patience as she adjusts, and more love. You are assuming responsibility for her veterinary care, feeding, health, and grooming from now on.
Look over the profiles of the available cats. Some are better than others with other pets, children, etc.
Find a cat who will be a great fit in your home. Although the Maine Coon personality is friendly, outgoing, and affectionate, your new rescue cat may need time to adjust.
Once the right match has been made, handle the introductions with care. That bond will come. Your new friend should soon become a secure well-adjusted family member.
By participating in Maine Coon Cat Rescue, you will feel great about making a difference in the life of an animal. More importantly, your new cat will really know and appreciate the fact that he or she has been rescued.
Ready? Great! Head on out to your local shelter and see who steals your heart! There are cats and kittens of every color, personality, and even breed at your local shelter.
Or, use this tool provided by Petfinder below.
Simply choose a breed, enter your area code, and you'll be on your way to meeting a new fur-friend who will thank you in so many ways.
These beauties come from the following groups:
Bringing a new cat into your home is an exciting journey!
When adopting, the process typically includes a few key steps to ensure the best match for both you and the cat. Here's an overview to help you prepare:
Start by exploring available cats online or at local shelters.
Many organizations have detailed profiles, including personality traits, compatibility with other pets or children, and any special needs.
Take your time to find a cat that seems like a good fit for your home and lifestyle.
Once you find a potential match, you’ll usually need to fill out an adoption application.
This helps the shelter or rescue group learn more about you - your living situation, experience with pets, and what you’re looking for in a companion.
Some organizations conduct interviews or home visits as part of the process. This step is about ensuring that both you and the cat are set up for success.
It’s also a great time to ask questions and get advice about integrating your new family member into your home.
If everything goes well, you’ll likely be invited to meet the cat in person. This is your chance to observe their behavior and see if there’s a connection.
Remember, some cats may be shy or reserved initially, especially in a new environment.
Once you’ve decided to move forward, there’s usually an adoption fee.
This fee often covers essentials like vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and a wellness check.
Be sure to ask what’s included so you’re prepared.
After the paperwork is complete, it’s time to bring your new companion home!
Set up a cozy space for them to adjust at their own pace, and give them plenty of love and patience as they settle in.
Adopting a cat is a long-term commitment, but it’s also deeply rewarding.
By opening your heart and home, you’re giving a deserving animal a fresh start and a brighter future.
Thanks to the selfless efforts of Maine Coon cat rescue organizations and compassionate pet lovers world-wide, cats are being adopted and saved every day!
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