Adopting a shelter cat also means saving a life. Cats that roam outdoors are at serious risk for disease, car accidents, exposure and injuries from other animals as well as becoming strays. Remember, many homeless cats were once someone's pet or born to pets. Cats can't take care of themselves. Cats may be more independent than dogs, but they still require daily care, love and a stimulating environment in which to thrive.
Proper identification is essential to cat safety.
Many healthly, wonderful cats are euthanized in shelters because they don't have identification and can not be returned to their owners. Neutered cats are happier and make better pets. Spaying and neutering greatly reduces the urge to mate, roam, fight and spray, and transfers the animal's love and attention to his human family. Solving the stray cat problem also requires pet owners to be responsible. Providing ongoing veterinary care, food, fresh water, a clean litter box, daily affection and a willingness to learn and understand cat behavior will help create a strong bond between owner and pet.