Cat adoption process
Adopt a cat at the Haags Dierencentrum
Are you considering adopting a cat? Then you’ve come to the right place at the Haags Dierencentrum. By adopting a shelter cat, you give an animal a second chance at a happy, safe, and loving life. Many cat lovers have gone before you; you can read about their experiences under Success Stories.
On this page, you can read everything about the cat adoption process, the requirements, our way of working, and the adoption fees.
Adopting a shelter cat
Our priority is the daily care of the animals. This includes feeding, cleaning, administering medication, and visits to the clinic.
In addition, we carefully read and respond to all emails. Please keep in mind that it may therefore take a little longer before you receive a response.
Appointments to visit cats can only be scheduled in the afternoon, between 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM. In the morning, we are busy feeding and cleaning, and after 3:30 PM, we focus on care and closing up for the evening and night.
Our methods and availability
Our priority is the daily care of the animals. This includes feeding, cleaning, administering medication, and visits to the clinic. In addition, we read and answer all emails carefully. However, please keep in mind that this can sometimes take a little longer.
Appointments to visit cats can only be scheduled in the afternoon, between 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM. In the morning, we are busy feeding and cleaning, and after 3:30 PM, we focus on care and closing up for the evening and night. We appreciate your understanding.
View available shelter cats
Wondering which cats are ready for a new home? On our website, you will find an overview of all shelter cats available for adoption.
Here you will find cats of various ages, personalities, and backgrounds looking for a loving home. We provide information about each cat’s behavior and needs, so you can get a good idea of who might be a match beforehand.
Don’t just look at age, appearance, or gender. The most important thing is that a cat’s personality fits your situation. For example, an active cat has different needs than a quiet adult cat. Often, you can only truly tell if there is a match when you meet the cat in person.
Making an appointment
Have you seen a cat on our website that you would like to offer a home? Please fill out the form completely. This information helps us get a better picture of your situation and what you are looking for in a cat.
We will then contact you to schedule an appointment.
Appointments take place in the afternoon, between 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM. During these sessions, we work with open appointments. This means that during your visit, you can meet the cats that are available for adoption at that time.
Because appointments are scheduled consecutively, it is possible that the cat you were interested in has just gone home with someone else. That is why it is helpful if you indicate as clearly as possible what you are looking for when you register. That way, we may be able to suggest another cat that is a perfect match for you.
The right match
During their stay at the shelter, we learn a lot about the behavior and needs of our cats. Based on this, we assess together with you whether the new home is suitable.
For example, we would not place a cat that needs a lot of stimulation and outdoor space with someone living in an apartment without suitable facilities. For cats living indoors, having enough vertical space—such as high resting spots and a scratching post—can be extra important.
We prefer not to place a fearful or easily overstimulated cat in a busy family with young children. Such a cat is better suited to a quiet environment.
Do you already have other pets? We take that into account during the assessment as well. Not every cat enjoys sharing their territory. When placing a cat with another cat, we look at things like personality, age, and their need for company.
Our goal is always the same: finding the best possible match between cat and owner.
As soon as that match is found, your new housemate can come home with you right away.
Cat adoption fees
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.
In addition to the adoption fees, please also consider the costs after adoption, such as food, cat litter, general care, and veterinary costs.
Medical care upon adoption
Shelter animals often receive medical care before adoption. This includes microchipping, vaccinations, deworming, flea treatment, and neutering or spaying.
We will discuss exactly what care your cat has received and what background information is known during the adoption process.
Agreements are also recorded at the time of adoption. Adoption terms can vary by shelter or organization. While an adoption contract does not have one single legal definition, it does establish the agreements regarding the placement of the animal.
Important points of attention
Please keep the following in mind for your appointment:
- Bring a valid ID, such as a 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.
- Always review our adoption terms and conditions beforehand.
The first period at home
Once home, a new chapter begins for your cat. A quiet starting point helps reduce stress. Provide fixed spots for sleeping, eating, and drinking, and place the litter box in a quiet, easily accessible location.
Some cats feel at home quickly, while others need days or weeks to fully relax. That is normal. Give your cat plenty of time and do not force contact.
Do you already have another cat? Introduce the animals slowly and step by step. Hissing and growling can occur during a first meeting. Give both cats plenty of their own space and do not force the interaction.
Good preparation helps to limit stress during this period.
Request information about a shelter animal
Are you interested in one of our shelter animals? Please fill out the form so that we can contact you.
We will discuss your situation and, if there is a potential match, make an appointment for you to come by and meet our cats.
