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A Guide to Navigating the Cat Adoption Process in Singapore
By Salwati Samzaman
Mon, Apr 17, 2023
Thinking about getting a cat? Here’s what you can expect as you get into the cat adoption process in Singapore.
So, you've decided to adopt a friendly feline to keep you company and welcome you home after a long day. Adopting a cat is an exciting and rewarding experience, but the process can be daunting for those unfamiliar. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step overview of the process to ensure you're fully prepared to bring home your new companion.
Understand the Cat Regulation in Singapore
Before you embark on the journey of adopting a cat, it is important for you to understand the rules and regulations surrounding pet ownership. Singapore has strict pet ownership laws in place to protect these vulnerable creatures and ensure their humane treatment. The Animal and Birds Act and subsequent regulations have set out the minimum care standards to be provided to cats. Under these regulations, owners must give the cats adequate and appropriate living conditions, food, water, exercise, and veterinary care.
It is also important to note that the Housing Development Board (HDB) Singapore prohibits the ownership of cats in HDB flats due to the challenges of keeping them contained within the apartment. The presence of cats in HDB flats may cause problems such as caterwauling, shedding, and urination in common corridors, which could cause inconvenience to neighbours. HDB requires those found to be housing cats to rehome them, and individuals who continue to violate the regulation may face fines of up to $4,000.
Cat ownership in HDB flats has been a hot topic of debate in recent years, and the government has been carefully reconsidering their stance on the ban since 2022. This has also initiated a flurry of conversations, with plenty of proponents, such as the Cat Welfare Society advocating that responsible cat owners make up the overwhelming majority and that HDB owners should be allowed to own cats. Currently, the government is still reviewing the issue by surveying the population to develop a proper framework that bears the interests of the public and cat owners in mind.
Additionally, the Cat Welfare Society, a non-profit organisation in Singapore, has established a code of conduct for cat owners, which includes guidelines on providing cats with a safe and secure environment, proper nutrition, and regular health check-ups. For more information, you can refer to their website here.
Cat Adoption Process
Once you're familiar with the pet ownership regulations in Singapore, you can start exploring the cat adoption process. It is important to note that the process may vary according to the organisation or shelter you are adopting.
Check Your Eligibility as a Cat Owner
Different adoption agencies may have different requirements, but generally, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a stable income, and have enough space and resources to care for a cat. Some agencies may also require you to undergo a home visit to assess whether your living environment is suitable for a cat.
If you're unsure of your eligibility, we suggest conducting a self-evaluation using the guidelines provided by the Cat Welfare Society, which can be accessed here, before contacting the relevant agency.
Reach Out to The Shelter
Once deemed eligible, you can start contacting the shelters and looking for your perfect feline companion. To ensure that you are committed to providing a lifelong home for the cat, some organizations may ask you to complete a pre-adoption questionnaire to learn more about your background.
Here are some shelters that you can explore:
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
It is advisable to conduct your own research and select the option that best suits your preferences and requirements.
Meet Some Potential Cats
The next step is to book an appointment to meet the cats you are considering adopting and spend some time with them to determine if your personalities are compatible. These cats are often cared for by fosterers who can offer detailed information on their health and behaviour.
Additionally, some agencies may require you to bring along all family members, as well as any other pets you may have, for a visit to assess and ensure a smooth transition in the event that you decide to adopt.
Preparing Your Home
As you search for a cat, it is also prudent for you to get your home all prepped and cat-ready. This includes stocking up on the right food, purchasing toys, catproofing your home with mesh, and clearing up dangerous plants or furniture around the house. During this stage, fosterers may also pay a visit to your home to assess and verify that your home is catproofed according to the organisation's adoption guidelines.
Time to Bring Your Cat Home!
Congratulations, you have finally found the perfect cat to bring home with you! Now that you have chosen your furry friend, it is time to complete the adoption process.
The process usually involves necessary paperwork, such as an adoption contract outlining your rights and responsibilities as a new pet owner. In addition to the paperwork, ensure that your cat has undergone a thorough medical test and procedures such as vaccinations, deworming, and sterilisation. The adoption agencies usually do these tests and procedures beforehand to ensure that the cat is healthy and ready to join your family.
Common Concerns and Misconceptions on the Cat Adoption Process in Singapore
Despite the benefits of cat adoption, some people may have concerns or misconceptions about the process. For example, some people may worry that adopted cats may have behavioural issues or health problems. However, reputable adoption agencies usually conduct health and behaviour assessments on the cats before putting them up for adoption. They also provide post-adoption support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both the cat and the adopter.
Another misconception is that cat adoption is a complex or lengthy process. While it's true that the adoption process may involve some paperwork, interviews, and waiting periods, the rewards of adopting a cat far outweigh the challenges. Additionally, many adoption agencies have streamlined their process to make it more efficient and convenient for the adopter.
Conclusion
It may seem daunting, but it is critical to bear in mind that the process to adopt a cat is in place to guarantee that the cats are placed in caring and responsible homes. As a prospective cat owner, assessing these requirements thoroughly before adopting a cat is essential to ensure you can provide a joyful and healthy home for your new feline friend. By doing so, you can establish a fulfilling and lifelong relationship with your cat, knowing that you have given it a loving and safe home.