Welcome Home & Transfer of Ownership
Chele's Cat Care is pleased to place the Cat in the Adopter's care. Ownership of the Cat transfers to the Adopter upon signing this Agreement and payment of the adoption fee.
Recognition of Lifelong Commitment
The Adopter understands that bringing a cat into their home is a long-term commitment. Cats may live 15 years or more, and the Adopter affirms that they have thoughtfully considered the time, patience, love, and financial resources needed to care for the Cat throughout its lifetime.
Indoor-Only Lifestyle
For the Cat’s safety and well-being, the Adopter agrees that the Cat will live indoors only. Keeping cats indoors protects them from common outdoor dangers, including coyotes, owls and other wildlife, traffic, toxins, parasites, and contagious diseases.
The Cat may go outside only in safe, controlled situations such as veterinary visits, transport, or supervised outdoor time using a secure carrier, stroller, harness and leash, or fully enclosed catio. The Cat will not be permitted to roam freely outdoors.
Daily Care & Quality of Life
The Adopter agrees to provide the Cat with compassionate and responsible care, including:
- Nutritious food, fresh water, and appropriate shelter
- A clean, safe, enriching home environment
- Regular veterinary care, including annual wellness exams and vaccinations
- Prompt veterinary attention if the Cat becomes ill or injured
No Declawing
The Adopter agrees that the Cat will never be declawed. Declawing is a permanent, disfiguring procedure that can lead to chronic pain, lameness, nerve damage, and serious behavioral issues such as biting and litter box avoidance. If scratching becomes a problem, Chele's Cat Care will be happy to work with the Adopter on addressing those issues through behavioral and environmental modification.
Return to Rescue Rather than Rehoming
If the Adopter is ever unable to keep the Cat for any reason, the Cat must be returned to Chele's Cat Care. The Cat may not be sold, given away, traded, abandoned, or surrendered to another person or organization.
Chele's Cat Care will always be happy to take the Cat back and to work with the Adopter to ensure the Cat's continued safety and well-being.
Rescue's Right to Protect the Cat
If the terms of this Agreement are not met, or if the Cat's health or safety is at risk, Chele's Cat Care reserves the right to reclaim the Cat. Adoption fees are non-refundable.
Acknowledgment of No Guarantee
Chele's Cat Care makes no guarantees regarding the Cat's health, temperament, or future veterinary needs, and cannot be held responsible for any future injury or damage caused by the Cat.
Adoption Fee
The adoption fee is non-refundable and helps support the Rescue’s ongoing mission to care for cats in need. You can pay the adoption fee here, then return to sign and submit this Agreement.
Shared Understanding
This Agreement reflects the entire understanding between the Adopter and Chele’s Cat Care and may be amended only in writing signed by both parties.
Thank you for adopting!
Thank you for opening your heart and home to a rescued cat. By adopting from Chele’s Cat Care, you are giving this Cat a second chance at a safe, loved, and happy life. We are grateful to be part of your adoption journey and are always here as a resource and support for you and your Cat.