There have been many changes taking place at the Toronto Animal Services South location where I volunteer, I will be writing about this in a separate future post, cat adoptions have been on the increase and intake has been on the decrease. During the last few years this has also meant there have been less cats to socialize as the turn around time for adoptions has become much quicker.

While the younger cats, especially kittens, go faster older cats tend to still be overlooked which means in many cases they wait little longer to find homes. Cats have generally been considered to be a senior between 7 and 10 years but recently the different life stages have been revised, so a true senior cat can defined as being between the ages 11 to 14 years (geriatric is 15 plus). With the right care and attention which includes annual vet check ups, proper nutrition and exercise, they can live long active lives making them wonderful companions – and the best thing is you know exactly what your cats personality is like from the start!

If you follow me on Instagram I often post available cats for adoption from the shelter, but I felt a few of the older cats who have been there for a while deserve some extra focus. If you live in Toronto, or know people who do and are looking for a wonderful older cat, please share this with them.

Meet Baby Face a 7-year-old cat that really earns his name, he came in as an owner surrender and is very shy at first but, as soon as he gets to know you he is extremely sweet. He loves to stand on his hind legs and give you head butts or role over for a tummy rub. A very eager to love and be loved cat, Baby Face has been in the shelter since April 6, 2016.

ID# 737950 – Baby Face is a gentle boy who is also good with other cats

Mia is a part of the big and beautiful cat club, she is long-haired black cat that will need some help ensuring she stays focused on her diet and weight management. She came in as an owner surrender and is 8 years old. Her long hair will also need to be groomed on a regular basis to ensure she does not get mats, while she is tolerant of other cats she may be prefer to be your one and only. Mia has been at the shelter since April 16, 2016.

ID # 489892 – Mia loves a cozy cat bed and to be the focus on your attention

Finally Pumpkin, who is the oldest of the bunch at 11 years old is a lovely black and white cat. She is a quiet girl who loves to settle in a cozy space or a cat tower where she can hide out. This affectionate girl will bring a calm to your household and, while she can be tolerant of other cats, Pumpkin would prefer to have you all to yourself. Pumpkin has been at the shelter since April 22, 2016.

ID # 740964 – Pumpkin’s very distinct markings add to her charm

Generally cats from about 7 years and up will have a harder time finding homes, it is good to remember that just because they are labeled as ‘senior’ or ‘older’ it doesn’t mean they cannot live a long, healthy and active life. For some great tips on how to care for an older cat and help them get the best out of life, check out this great post by International Cat Care.

All cats listed above are available at Toronto Animal Services South Shelter, adoption is open to the public 7 days a week between 12-3pm.