A shelter in New York City is facing a challenge as more than 200 adult and senior cats in their care await adoption. Despite efforts to find the perfect homes for the felines, most haven't received a single adoption application.
Katy Hansen from The Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) expressed concern over the plight of these senior cats: "So many people want a kitten," she told , before adding just how rewarding adopting a senior cat can be.
"Unlike kittens whose personalities are still developing, older cats have established temperaments. This allows you to choose a cat whose personality matches your lifestyle and preferences," Hansen said, adding that senior cats also have more settled behavior than younger ones.
"They are typically past the hyperactive kitten phase, making them a good fit for households where a calmer pet is desired."
Two of the older cats who are at the NYC shelter and have had zero applications. The director of communications told Newsweek that senior felines make lovely pets.Each year, 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters, which is an average of 17,260 a day, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
The number of dogs and cats taken in by pet shelters hit 46,807 during January 2023, an increase of 1,744 compared with January 2022, the 24Pet 'Shelter Watch Report' found.
Around 920,000 surrendered animals are euthanized every year. Shelters are striving to minimize euthanasia rates by promoting adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation.
Some of the older cats do require some extra care and attention, particularly dental work which can be expensive, but ACC staff members have even devised a solution for this.
"Our genius foster team came up with 'dentistry fosters' who work directly with local veterinarians to provide low- or no-cost dentistry work, and then the cat can recover in foster care while we seek out placement," said Hansen.
"We are so grateful for them."
In a heartbreaking video on its official account, the shelter shared just a few of the older cats who have had no interest from potential adopters.
Two of the older cats rest at the ACC shelter. They are still waiting for the perfect forever home, the director of communications told Newsweek.From 13-year-old Mittens to 7-year-old Purrpose—the adorable faces of older cats in the shelter have broken hearts online.
"These cats have so much emotions in their eyes. I wanna cry," posted one commenter, while another viewer wrote: "They look so hopeless I'm sobbing.
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There are other positives to choosing to rehome an older cat, too. They typically have lower energy levels, making them ideal for a relaxed lifestyle, and don't require the time and patience needed to raise a kitten.
of a loving home and .
"Older cats in shelters often face difficulties in finding homes, as people tend to be drawn to cute kittens," Hansen said. "By adopting an older cat, you are giving a loving home to an animal that ."
