Are you thinking about getting a new cat? Your local shelter can help you find the perfect cuddle buddy. Here are seven reasons why adopting a shelter cat is one of the best choices you’ll ever make:

1. Shelter Employees Are Expert Matchmakers
Do you need a cat who loves kids? Or one who doesn’t mind dogs? Shelter employees can tell you about each cat’s history, whether they once lived in a similar household, and what their personality is like. They may also allow meet-and-greets with your kids or other pets to ensure your potential match is truly compatible with your household.

2. There’s Cats at Every Stage of Life
Whether you’re looking to adopt a wide-eyed baby kitten, a spry but well-behaved adult cat, or a laid-back senior, many shelters have resident cats at all different life stages. Keep in mind that adult cats are not necessarily given up because of behavioral issues. Many lose their homes when their family moves, when someone develop allergies, or when their previous owner passes away.

3. You Can Still Get the Breed You Love
Stuck on your favorite breed? Not all shelter cats are your typical domestic tabby. Any breed of cat can end up in need of a home. You can search PetFinder.com for your favorite breed, and you might just find a cat available near you. It may just take more time plus a road trip to find the cat of your dreams. If you can’t find your breed at a shelter, try a breed specific rescue.

4. Room for One More?
Your local shelter might have a bonded pair that needs a home with room for two. Bonded pairs can often adapt more quickly to their new home with the support of their companion. They can also keep one another company if they’ll be left alone while you go to work or school. If you already had plans to eventually get another cat, adopting two at once is generally more likely to be successful than introducing a new cat to your household later.

5. It’s Financially Responsible
Did you know that adopting from a shelter is the most affordable way to get a cat? Your cat will come home spayed or neutered, microchipped, up to date on their vaccines, and will have been checked and treated for parasites. All of these services are included in your shelter’s affordable adoption fee. Your shelter may also offer vouchers for food, toys, and follow-up vet services.

6. Adopting Saves Lives
Many shelters are overcrowded and have no choice but to euthanize animals to make room for new intakes. When you adopt a cat, not only will you ensure that they’re safe and loved for the rest of their life, you’ll also make room for another cat in need. Your adoption fee will also go towards the care of other animals.

7. You’ll Get to Know Your Local Shelter
Your local shelter is so much more than a place to meet your new best friend. It’s also a great place to connect with your community and help animals in need. Your cat’s extended family members back at the shelter can give you advice if you ever need help with a health or behavioral issue. They may also offer low-cost services like vaccine boosters and yearly checkups.

What’s more, your local shelter might have volunteer opportunities and community events like 5K runs, flea markets, movie nights, and other fundraisers. You can find fun things to do with your family while helping to raise money to support animals in need.

Check out your local shelter’s website or give them a call today. You’ve got nothing to lose except that empty spot on the couch.