Please Note!

Due to the current Avian Influenza Prevention Zone, our Aviaries and fowl areas remain closed to the public. Good news - the terrapin sanctuary and dog walk have now reopened. We do NOT have this virus at Raystede. We are still very much open and welcome visitors to the rest of the site.

Book your visit Contact us Peaceways Pet Crematorium

Things to consider before getting a cat

Getting a cat is a big commitment, and something which should be thoroughly researched and thought through. Here we cover some of the important things to consider.

Which cat might be the purr-fect match?

  • It is important to understand the personality of any cat you wish to share your home with, to ensure that you are fully able to meet their needs and enable them to thrive.
  • The individual background and previous experiences of each cat will influence them. Adopting a cat from Raystede means that we will provide you with a full background (where available) and take the time to help you to find your ideal match.
  • Like humans, a cat’s age is likely to have an impact on their energy levels and enrichment requirements, so this is another thing to consider when finding your match.
  • Each of our cats has an individual profile on our website, where you can find out all about them and the specific things they need in their forever home. If you are considering enquiring about any of our cats, please take the time to read their profile to decide whether you can offer them a suitable home.
  • It is important to understand the personality of any cat you wish to share your home with, to ensure that you are fully able to meet their needs and enable them to thrive.
  • The individual background and previous experiences of each cat will influence them. Adopting a cat from Raystede means that we will provide you with a full background (where available) and take the time to help you to find your ideal match.
  • Like humans, a cat’s age is likely to have an impact on their energy levels and enrichment requirements, so this is another thing to consider when finding your match.
  • Each of our cats has an individual profile on our website, where you can find out all about them and the specific things they need in their forever home. If you are considering enquiring about any of our cats, please take the time to read their profile to decide whether you can offer them a suitable home.

Age is just a number

  • Older cats have a more settled personality, enabling you to find a cat that is a purr-fect match for you and your home.
  • An older cat is likely to be more relaxed and while they still need enrichment and stimulation, you won’t be reaching for the toys quite so often as they are more likely to just want to snooze and relax!
  • Older cats tend to be calmer and might be used to living with young children and so will know when to retreat should things get a little boisterous.
  • By choosing to adopt a senior cat, you’re giving them a second chance at happiness as they enter their golden years

Why choose a rescue cat?

  • By adopting a cat through a rescue centre such as Raystede, you will be fully supported throughout the process of finding the right one, and settling them into your home and life.
  • We will provide you with the full background history of each individual cat, as well as our expert behaviour assessment, when helping you to decide whether you are a good match. Our Cattery Team are also on hand to offer advice, support and expertise throughout the whole adoption process, and the lifetime of the cat.
  • If your circumstances change in the future, and you are no longer able to care for the cat, we will always take them back into our care.
  • All Raystede cats will have received a full vet health check, which will be shared with a potential adopter. Also included within the adoption fee are first vaccinations, microchipping and neutering.
  • Cats are a big financial commitment, so our adoption fees also include four weeks of free pet insurance.
  • By adopting a cat through a rescue centre such as Raystede, you will be fully supported throughout the process of finding the right one, and settling them into your home and life.
  • We will provide you with the full background history of each individual cat, as well as our expert behaviour assessment, when helping you to decide whether you are a good match. Our Cattery Team are also on hand to offer advice, support and expertise throughout the whole adoption process, and the lifetime of the cat.
  • If your circumstances change in the future, and you are no longer able to care for the cat, we will always take them back into our care.
  • All Raystede cats will have received a full vet health check, which will be shared with a potential adopter. Also included within the adoption fee are first vaccinations, microchipping and neutering.
  • Cats are a big financial commitment, so our adoption fees also include four weeks of free pet insurance.

How do I adopt a cat from Raystede?

  • You will need to complete an online application form. If you are not keen on using the internet, don’t worry, a member of our Rehoming Team can help you to complete an application form over the phone. Please call 01825 880468 between 8.30am – 4.30pm.
  • Please add as much detail as possible on your form, telling us all about the home you can offer a cat, and about the type of cat you are hoping to share your life with. Due to the high volume of enquiries we receive, we cannot respond to every application so make sure you include everything you want us to know on your application form. You can attach photos and videos to your application, if you feel this would be helpful.
  • Once you have submitted your application, you need to monitor our website regularly, carefully reading the profile of each individual cat to see whether you can offer them the home they need. The website is updated regularly so don’t worry if you don’t spot a match immediately!
  • When you spot a cat that is a good match for you and your family, home and lifestyle, please email us at info@raystede.org
  • Our expert Cattery Team, who know each individual cat thoroughly, will assess your application to see if the match could be a success.
  • If we think it is a potential match, you will be invited to Raystede to meet the cat and a member of the Cattery Team. They will introduce you to the cat and discuss their background, health and behaviour.
  • If all goes well, our Rehoming Team will contact you to arrange an adoption appointment where they will talk you through caring for your new cat before you take your new companion home.
  • Our Cattery Team will be in touch as you settle your new cat in, to offer any advice, help and support you might need.


Thinking of buying a cat?

  • We would always recommend getting a cat from a rescue centre, however adopting a cat may take time and require some patience so you might be thinking about looking online for a cat.
  • There are significant risks associated with buying a cat online, to both the animals and you, the buyer.
  • We particularly encourage adoption of mixed breed cats (‘moggies’) as they generally have fewer health and welfare issues than purebred cats.
  • Purebred and pedigree cats have increased in popularity in recent years. Whilst these cats may look appealing, some have extreme characteristics (such as flat faces) which can cause them significant suffering.
  • Be cautious of sellers who try to pressure you into a quick purchase, or who make excuses and can’t provide the information or proof you require.
  • If you have any concerns about an advert you see for a cat online, please report these concerns so that they can be properly investigated: Report an Advert
  • We would always recommend getting a cat from a rescue centre, however adopting a cat may take time and require some patience so you might be thinking about looking online for a cat.
  • There are significant risks associated with buying a cat online, to both the animals and you, the buyer.
  • We particularly encourage adoption of mixed breed cats (‘moggies’) as they generally have fewer health and welfare issues than purebred cats.
  • Purebred and pedigree cats have increased in popularity in recent years. Whilst these cats may look appealing, some have extreme characteristics (such as flat faces) which can cause them significant suffering.
  • Be cautious of sellers who try to pressure you into a quick purchase, or who make excuses and can’t provide the information or proof you require.
  • If you have any concerns about an advert you see for a cat online, please report these concerns so that they can be properly investigated: Report an Advert

Here are some websites you find might useful if thinking of buying a cat:

How to buy a pet
Help and advice: getting a cat
Thinking about getting a cat
Spot signs of deceitful sellers

What about buying a kitten?

It may be tempting to look for a kitten but there are a few extra important things to remember if considering a kitten:

  • Kittens must be at least 8 weeks of age before they are available.
  • You should always meet the kitten with their mum, and in the environment they have grown up in.
  • Whilst kittens are cute and fun, they will require lots of care and supervision, and they can be a 20 year commitment.


It may be tempting to look for a kitten but there are a few extra important things to remember if considering a kitten:

  • Kittens must be at least 8 weeks of age before they are available.
  • You should always meet the kitten with their mum, and in the environment they have grown up in.
  • Whilst kittens are cute and fun, they will require lots of care and supervision, and they can be a 20 year commitment.


Could you be a cat fosterer?

If you are unable to commit to full cat ownership, fostering could be an option.
Click below to find out more:

Find out more about fostering

Meet Albert, who is one of our most heartwarming transformations.

When Albert arrived at Raystede, he was nervous, underweight and suffering with painful patches of dry skin and sore joints.

At Raystede, we don’t just rehome animals, we rehabilitate them first, giving the best chance at a happy and healthy life. From healthcare to behavioural therapy, every step of their journey is carefully guided so they can trust again.

You can make a difference. A gift today will help make sure we can continue to care for all our animals, giving them the love and care they deserve.

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