Adopting a rescue cat

[Spacemountain]

We currently have 2 rescue cats and would like to rescue another 1 or 2 cats. Without sounding braggy, we have a large home and a large secure garden so plenty of space for 3 or 4 cats in the home. I called Battersea today and was told a flat no by the woman who answered as we already have 2 cats. This despite their website having an option to search for cats who may be able to live with other cats. She said this was their policy. Has anyone had any luck rescuing cats when they already have cats? And what rescue centres are open to allowing this?

I've not come across that policy before (former veterinary receptionist & have fostered for a small local rescue).
I'd suggest contacting your local RSPCA branch (although they are a large organisation, the branches are individually run) or small local rescues. The RSPCA didn't bat an eyelid when we adopted with an existing cat, & when I volunteered at one of their catteries I had two cats & they were always trying to get me to take another one 😅

You'll probably find it easier to introduce a pair of rescue kittens rather than 1 or 2 adults though. Not to say it can't work, but a pair of kittens will tire each other out so they won't bug the adults as much, & there's less at play in the way of personality clashes than trying to introduce adults.

That's bonkers. Of course you can have more. They just need careful introductions and a bit of patience (or not as the case may be - some cats are very accepting).

I'm with the Canning Town branch of Celia Hammonds www.celiahammond.org/canning-town/index.php/animals-needing-homes/canning-town-london

pm me if I can help

Thanks Awkward. I did ask about kittens as I said I felt that would be best in terms of our other cats and she just said it was their policy due to ensuring each cat had enough space in the home. I explained we have plenty of space but she didn't seem to want to discuss it and reiterated it was their policy. I will give the RSPCA a try, I will also try some local rescue centres. I thought it was a lost cause due to what Battersea said. Glad to hear it is not.

Thanks thecatneuterer. I will take a look. Canning Town is the opposite end of London to us but will see if there are closer branches. If not I am always happy to travel for cats 😀

I have more than four times the number of rescue cats you have!

@Spacemountain are you anywhere near SW London? If so, I can give you details of a couple of small, but amazing rescues that could probably help.

@TwigTheWonderKid Yes we are on the border of SW London. Details would be really apprecisted.

Have PMd you OP

Cats Protection have let me adopt with a resident cat. The cat I adopted last came from a 'multi cat' household - so he was used to other cats. I have never tried to have more than two cats (lack the room).

You're going to be better off with a small local rescue than with one of the big players - they tend to be very rigid and rule focused, which is not always in the best interests of the animals. I have 4 rescues - the first two from June last year, bonded through being housed together. The second two I got as older kittens (5 months) - I wanted a bonded pair again in case they didn't get on with the other two. It's worked perfectly (or purrfectly) - I'm currently looking at one of the newbies snuggled up with my original girl who was born in a feral colony. They've established a neat little pecking order and get on really well. Mine come from a small local rescue near us and the person who runs it is excellent at matching cats to homes.

I've always found that Battersea policy depends on whom you talk to there...
I have four Battersea cats, the last two adopted four years ago.

Visit and talk to them at the centre, you may find you get a different response.

I have never ever come across this before, every cat rescue I've been involved with would be beating down your door.
How weird.
Celia Hammond rescue or Cats protection league for starters.

www.facebook.com/gingercathouse118/

This rescue is based in Stoneleigh near Epsom

Thanks all. I have contacted a few of the rescue places suggested and have been asked to fill in adoption forms so fingers crossed.