Celebrate Cat Adoption Month by Spreading Kindness to Street Cats
Cat Adoption Month was first established by American Humane in 1974 to encourage people to adopt cats from shelters, especially during June, when shelters experience a surge in kittens during “kitten season.” Since then, it has become a global reminder to open our hearts and homes to cats in need.
Cats have long been cherished companions—mysterious, graceful, and full of charm. Yet, not every cat gets to curl up in a warm home or nap on a windowsill. Across streets, rooftops, and alleys, countless street cats roam every day, silently surviving and often misunderstood. These are the stray and feral cats—forgotten by many but equally deserving of love.
June is recognized as Cat Adoption Month, a time to reflect on how we can do more for these voiceless animals. This month encourages compassion, responsible adoption, and simple acts of care that can transform lives, both feline and human.
Understanding the Lives of Street Cats
Before we dive into ways to help, it’s important to understand the difference between stray and feral cats, as their needs and behaviors can be very different.
- Stray cats are typically former house pets who have been lost, abandoned, or left to survive on their own. They may still crave human interaction and can often be re-socialized and adopted.
- Feral cats, on the other hand, are usually born and raised without human contact. They’re more cautious, often fearful of humans, and prefer living in colonies or on their own.
Both types fall under the umbrella of outdoor cats, and while their personalities may differ, one truth remains the same: they are worthy of kindness.
Why Cat Adoption Month Matters
The month of June marks the beginning of “kitten season,” when thousands of new kittens are born, many into stray and feral colonies. Shelters become overwhelmed, and unfortunately, many cats don’t get the care they need.
Cat Adoption Month is about more than just adopting cats; it’s about raising awareness, educating the public, and creating opportunities for street cats to find homes, shelter, or support.
Adopting a Stray Cat: A Gift for Both
Bringing a stray cat into your home is not just a rescue mission—it’s a heartwarming experience. Stray cats often remember kindness and form deep bonds with their new families. They’re incredibly loyal, affectionate, and adaptive when given a safe, stable environment.
However, adopting a stray cat does require patience and preparation:
- Start slow: Allow the cat to come to you. Let it explore your home gradually.
- Visit a vet: A full health check-up, vaccinations, and parasite control are essential.
- Give them space: A quiet room with a litter box, food, Healthy treats, and water helps them settle in.
- Use positive reinforcement: Treats and gentle talk can build trust over time.
Adopting is about giving a cat not just shelter, but dignity and love.
Can You Adopt a Feral Cat?
Adopting a feral cat can be more complex. Most adult feral cats are not suited to indoor living. They are deeply fearful of humans and may never fully adapt to a domestic life. However, there are exceptions, especially with feral kittens or cats that show some openness to humans.
If you’re interested in helping feral cats:
- Consider fostering: Kittens under 8 weeks old can often be socialized and adopted.
- Build outdoor shelters: Some feral cats are happiest when they remain outside but with access to safe food, water, and shelter.
- TNR programs: Trap-Neuter-Return is the most humane way to reduce feral cat populations and improve their lives.
Building an Outdoor Cat House
For cats who prefer outdoor living—especially ferals—providing shelter is an act of compassion. An outdoor cat house offers warmth in winter, shade in summer, and safety year-round.
Tips for building an outdoor cat house:
- Use waterproof materials like plastic bins, wood, or Styrofoam.
- Raise it off the ground to avoid water and insects.
- Add warm bedding like straw or old towels. Avoid fleece or newspaper, as they retain moisture.
- Make a small entrance to keep out predators and wind.
You can also buy ready-made shelters online or work with local rescue groups to set them up in safe outdoor areas.
Feeding Street Cats the Right Way
Whether feral or stray, street cats face daily challenges in finding food and clean water. A consistent feeding routine helps them stay healthy and allows you to monitor their well-being. Feed stray cats boiled meat, eggs, rice, or cat food. Avoid milk, bones, and spicy foods. Provide fresh water daily in a clean spot to build trust and care.
Do’s:
- Use clean bowls and place them in quiet, shaded areas.
- Feed at the same time each day.
- Provide fresh water, especially in hot climates.
Don’ts:
- Don’t overfeed in one area—it may attract other animals or complaints.
- Don’t give dairy products or seasoned leftovers.
Feeding a stray cat regularly often builds trust and can be the first step toward socialization or adoption.
Final Thoughts: Every Cat Deserves a Chance
We often fall in love with fluffy kittens in store windows, but real compassion begins when we care for those who have nothing. Stray and feral cats may come with challenges, but they also bring strength, survival, and surprising affection into our lives.
So this Cat Adoption Month, let’s go beyond admiration and act with compassion:
- Build a shelter
- Feed a cat
- Share a story
- Open your home
Whether it’s a cozy outdoor cat house or a spot on your living room couch, love has many forms.
“Not every cat has a home, but every cat deserves a heart that cares.”