Adopt a cat
Adopt a cat in The Hague
Looking to adopt a cat in The Hague? At Haags Dierencentrum, cats of all ages and personalities are waiting for a new home. From young, active cats to calm adults or seniors: we don’t just look at which cat you like, but primarily at which cat best fits your living situation and lifestyle.
Adopting a cat is a commitment for years to come. Every cat has its own personality, background, and specific needs for attention, space, and companionship. That is why we believe it is vital that a new housemate ends up in a place where they can truly feel at home.
Take a look at our cats available for adoption and discover which cat is currently looking for a new home.
Adopting a shelter cat
Every year, thousands of cats in Dutch shelters wait for adoption. People sometimes think cats end up in a shelter because of behavioral issues, but that is usually not the case. Cats often arrive at the shelter for various reasons, such as a move, changes within a family, or because an owner can no longer care for the animal. One of the most common reasons is that a cat is brought in via the animal ambulance—often stray cats found on the street.
Our shelter is home to many different cats. Some seek constant contact and love to come to you for a cuddle, while others prefer to take their time getting used to new people and a new environment.
Adult and senior cats can also adapt perfectly to a new home. The advantage of adult cats is that their personality is often already clear, allowing us to better assess which new housemate fits your situation.
Adopting a shelter cat doesn’t just mean giving a cat a second chance. You are also choosing an animal for which we try to know as much as possible about their character, behavior, and needs.
Which cat is right for me?
The right match is different for every situation. For example, a kitten may have a lot of energy and a need for play and attention, while adult cats are often already a bit calmer. A senior cat might be the perfect fit for someone looking for a quiet companion.
That’s why you should look beyond appearance or age. Consider how much you are at home, how much space you have, and how much time you can spend with a cat daily. Do you already have other animals, such as dogs, cats, birds, or guinea pigs? That is also important for the match.
Cats can often get along well with other pets, but this depends heavily on their personality and previous experiences. Not every cat enjoys sharing their territory with another animal.
That is why at Haags Dierencentrum, we look at both the cat and your situation. This increases the chance that the adoption is a great choice for both sides.
Adopting a cat with children
A cat can be a wonderful addition to a family with children. Children and cats can even become best friends, as long as the combination suits both.
It is important to make clear agreements at home. For example, a cat must always have the option to retreat when things get too busy. Teach children not to pick up a cat or chase after it if the animal isn’t in the mood. Approaching calmly and petting gently often works much better.
Cats are social animals and need daily interaction and play, but they like to decide for themselves when to seek contact. A quiet spot where the cat is not disturbed helps prevent stress.
When looking for a suitable cat, we therefore take the family composition and the cat’s personality into account.
How adopting a cat works at Haags Dierencentrum
Have you seen a cat that might be a match? Then the adoption process begins. A careful introduction is important because we want to prevent a cat from needing a new home again after a short time.
Broadly speaking, adopting a cat consists of the following steps:
- View the cats available for adoption. See which cats are currently looking for a new home and read more about their personality and needs.
- Submit an adoption application. You can use the form on this page to indicate your interest in adopting a cat.
- We review the potential match. We look at your living situation, family, any other pets, and the needs of the cat.
- Getting to know each other. If there is a potential match, an introduction follows so you can meet the cat. It is also possible that during the appointment you meet another cat that might be a better fit for you.
- Adoption. Is it a good match? Then we discuss the further adoption details and an adoption contract is signed.
Want to know exactly what to expect during each step? Read more about the cat adoption process.
Adopting an adult or senior cat
Adopting a senior cat can be a great choice if you are looking for a calmer companion. Adult and senior cats often have a well-defined personality, making it easier to assess which environment suits them best.
A senior cat does not automatically need less attention. Older cats are also social animals and need interaction, attention, and mental and physical stimulation. A consistent routine and a quiet spot can help make the transition to a new home easier.
Keep in mind that health problems can occur more frequently in older cats. In addition to the usual costs for food and care, it is wise to account for potential veterinary costs.
Give a senior cat plenty of time to adjust as well. Having their own room or a quiet spot can help them feel safe, especially during the initial period.
How much does it cost to adopt a cat?
The adoption costs for adopting a cat at the Haags Dierencentrum are:
- Cat 1 year and older: €175
- Cat under 1 year: €190
With this contribution, you help us with the care, medical costs, and sheltering of the animals. This allows us to continue helping other cats find a new home.
Important points of attention
Please also keep the following in mind:
- Bring a valid ID (passport, driver’s license, or identity card)
- Payment is only possible by debit card
- We kindly ask you to be on time
- Can’t make it? Please let us know in time
Finally, always check our placement conditions before making an appointment.
It is also good to consider the ongoing costs of owning a cat. Monthly costs vary depending on the type of food, cat litter, and any medical care. Additionally, unexpected veterinary costs may arise.
It is therefore wise to think about these costs in advance and perhaps keep a reserve fund for unexpected care. After all, adopting a cat means you are responsible for the animal’s care and well-being for a long time.
Adopting one or two kittens?
Whether it is better to adopt one or two kittens depends on the kittens and your home situation. Young cats have a great need for play, exercise, and social interaction. Two kittens can therefore benefit greatly from each other, playing and growing up together. Do you already have another cat? Then we recommend taking one kitten. We generally advise against adopting kittens alone, as they love having a friend and often grow up with other kittens.
Adopt a cat at Haags Dierencentrum!
At Haags Dierencentrum, dozens of sweet, playful, and affectionate cats are waiting for a new home. Give a shelter cat from The Hague a second chance and enrich your life with unconditional love.
Fill out the form below to start your application. Do you already have a specific cat in mind? Please indicate this in your preferences. Of course, you are more than welcome to meet several cats during your visit!
Informatie opvragen over kat
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Frequently asked questions about the Haags Dierencentrum
Where can I adopt a cat in The Hague?
At Haags Dierencentrum, you can adopt a shelter cat in The Hague. You can find the cats currently available for adoption on our website. For every adoption, we carefully check if the cat and the new owner are a good match.
How does adopting a shelter cat work?
First, you view the available cats and then submit an adoption application. We then assess whether your situation matches the cat’s needs. If there is a potential match, an introduction follows. Once everything feels right and the conditions are met, the adoption can be finalized.
What requirements do I need to meet to adopt a cat?
This varies per cat. We look at factors such as the living situation, family composition, presence of other pets, and the specific needs of the cat. Please also review our adoption terms for cats.
Can I adopt a cat if I already have a dog or cat?
It is possible, but not every cat can or wants to live with other pets. The cat’s personality and previous experiences are important here. That is why we assess for each animal whether a home with dogs or other cats, for example, is suitable.
Can I adopt a senior cat?
Yes. A senior cat can adapt perfectly to a new environment and is often calmer than a young cat. Give older cats plenty of time to adjust and provide daily attention, interaction, and a steady routine.
How long does it take for a cat to settle in?
This varies per cat. Some cats feel at ease quickly, while others need a few weeks or even a few months. Give the cat plenty of peace and let them discover their new environment at their own pace.
