The rescue centre is doing a home visit on Sunday - what will they be looking for?

[KirstyJC]

So today we took the plunge and went to the local Cats Protection centre and had a chat and met some cats. We totally fell in love with one cat, although they won't reserve him until we pass the home visit - so we are crossing our fingers for a successful visit!

Thing is, I am not exactly sure what they are looking for. They know we don't have a cat flap yet and can advise on where best to place one, but other than that what do they want to see? I had a cat about 8 years ago but in a different house and that was one I got from a friend who couldn't keep hers, so I've never dealt with a rescue centre before.

I haven't bought any cat stuff yet as I want to wait until we are sure to get one before spending any money. Are they just looking to check the house is secure? Is there anything special we need to do?

I'm feeling really nervous.......

They might be interested in the surounding area eg proximity to busy roads.
I think that whats expected on a home visit varies depending on how strict the rescue centre are.

When we had hours done, they wanted to know what provisions we'd make for the cat, where her tray would go etc.

They also had a long chat about what expectations we have about living with a cat.

having adopted 2 cats from a centre - and had to return one after a year
I have a VARY low opinion of the views of these staff
they have NO idea how happy cats behave in happy homes
they did not spot problems that my vet correctly diagnosed in seconds
they were obsessed with the fact that my house is on a bus route (last two cats died of old age)
and cannot "get" that kids who have grown up with cats might be safe with new ones

Yay - we have been approved!!

They wanted to see the outside space and where we plan for it to stay esp in the first 2 weeks when it's not allowed out. They also gave advice on the best place to put a catflap and the feeding etc. They talked about the type of cat that would be comfortable with us - a loud family with 3 kids - and what to expect behaviour wise, esp at first.

The cat we fell for has been reserved by someone else sadly but they have more that aren't in the main area yet, so we didn't see them on Friday. I am going back tomorrow to see 2 of them that they recommended would be suitable for us.

Getting STUPIDLY excited now - I have been waiting to get another cat for 8 years and I can't believe we are so close now!

Well done! The rescues wouldn't have us because next door has a dog! So we bought one and he teases the dog.

KirstyJC - whereabouts do you live? Which rescue centre are you looking at? We're in NW London and I have been recommended to the Mayhew Animal Centre in Willesden.

Hi Dancergirl - we went to our local Cats Protection (South West area of UK). Our new cat has been here less than 48 hours and is perfect.