29 May 2024
The question that inspired this post:
Does anyone have experience adopting a cat in Paris and have tips they could share? My wife and I are American expats and want to adopt a cat but cannot speak French yet. As we do not have a car we want to find a good organization either in Paris or reachable by RER.
Answer
"Hey there! I currently have two cats, both adopted, and I had two other cats before these, also adopted. With the exception of my very first cat, Tequila, who was gifted to me and passed away years ago, all were adopted. My wife and I make a point of not encouraging animal breeders.
I adopted the last three from the same person, whose contact info I got from my vet at the time.
So basically, if you want to adopt a cat, you can go about it one of three ways:
visit a few vets and ask if they have clients who have kittens they're giving away;
visit a cat refuge, typically the SPA (Society for the protection of animals) as they always have kittens available that need a good home. You'll have to pay a small fee for the adoption, but it covers microchipping (this is mandatory in all of Europe), basic vaccinations and tests, FeLV screening and the costs associated with feeding and sheltering the cat. Due to how expensive rent is in Paris, the refuges will be on the outskirts of Paris, definitely reachable by RER or even Uber for the one in Gennevilliers.
there are animal adoption fairs from time to time, but I have no idea when or where.
Btw, if you love animals, please consider adopting a kitten instead of buying one.
Lastly, if you need help with the language, I can give you a hand."
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Introduction
Adopting a pet in France as a foreigner can be a rewarding and heartwarming experience. This guide will walk you through the steps involved in adopting a cat or dog, ensuring you are well-prepared for your new companion. Important links to resources and organizations are provided to assist you throughout the process.
Step 1: Research and Preparation
Assess Your Lifestyle
Living Situation: Ensure your home is pet-friendly, with sufficient space and a safe environment.
Schedule: Consider your availability to spend time with your new pet. Dogs, in particular, require regular exercise and companionship.
Financial Capability: Be prepared for ongoing costs such as food, veterinary care, grooming, and other supplies.
Learn About Pet Care
Feeding: Understand the dietary needs of cats and dogs.
Grooming: Learn about grooming practices specific to the type of pet you are adopting.
Medical Care: Familiarize yourself with common health issues and preventive care.
Step 2: Choose the Right Adoption Source
Animal Shelters and Rescue Groups
SPA (Société Protectrice des Animaux): A major national organization with numerous shelters across France. SPA Website
40 Millions d’Amis: Another prominent animal protection group. 40 Millions d'Amis Website
Local Shelters and Rescue Groups: Many cities and towns have local organizations dedicated to animal rescue.
Online Platforms
Seconde Chance: Lists animals available for adoption from various shelters across France. Seconde Chance Website
Refuge Adoption: Another platform to find adoptable pets. Refuge Adoption Website
Step 3: Visit the Shelter or Browse Online Listings
Visit Shelters
Spend time visiting local shelters to meet cats and dogs in person. This helps you understand their personalities and needs.
Browse Online Listings
Look at photos and descriptions of available pets to shortlist potential candidates.
Step 4: Meet and Choose Your Pet
Interact with Potential Pets
Spend time with the cats or dogs you are interested in to see how they interact with you and your family members.
Ask Questions
Inquire about the pet’s health, temperament, and history. Shelter staff can provide valuable insights into the pet’s behaviour and needs.
Step 5: Adoption Application
Fill Out an Application
Most shelters and rescue organizations require an adoption application. This form typically asks about your living situation, experience with pets, and your expectations for a new pet.
Home Visit
Some organizations may conduct a home visit to ensure that your home is suitable for a pet.
Step 6: Read and Sign the "Certificat d'Engagement et de Connaissance" (CEC)
Government Requirement
All first-time pet owners in France must read and sign the CEC, which outlines the responsibilities of pet ownership. French Ministry of Agriculture: Pet Ownership Responsibilities
Step 7: Adoption Fees and Agreements
Adoption Fees
Be prepared to pay an adoption fee, which helps cover the costs of veterinary care, vaccinations, microchipping, and spaying/neutering. Fees can vary but are usually between €100 and €300.
Adoption Agreement
You will be asked to sign an adoption agreement, which outlines your responsibilities as a pet owner.
Step 8: Bringing Your Pet Home
Prepare Your Home
Ensure you have all necessary supplies, including food, a litter box (for cats), a bed, toys, and a scratching post (for cats) or a leash (for dogs).
Safe Space
Create a quiet and safe area for your new pet to acclimate to their new environment.
Step 9: Post-Adoption Care
Veterinary Check-Up
Schedule a visit to the vet soon after adoption to ensure your pet is healthy and to discuss a vaccination and health care plan.
Gradual Introduction
Allow your pet to explore their new home gradually. Be patient as they adjust to their new surroundings.
Step 10: Ongoing Care and Love
Regular Veterinary Care
Keep up with regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care.
Provide Attention and Enrichment
Spend quality time with your pet and provide toys and activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Additional Tips for Cat Adoption
Get on the Adoption Waitlist
Most organizations require you to register your interest in adopting by filling out an online form or visiting in person. They will likely ask about your living situation, experience with pets, etc., to try to match you with a suitable cat.
Home Visit and Interview
Many shelters will want to visit your home and interview you before finalizing an adoption. This ensures the cat is a good match for your lifestyle and living situation.
Pay an Adoption Fee
There is usually an adoption fee ranging from €150-300 for a cat or kitten. This covers the costs of sterilization, vaccinations, microchipping, etc., provided by the shelter.
Finalize the Adoption
Once approved, you'll sign an adoption contract with the shelter. They will go over the cat's medical history, diet, behaviour, etc., with you.
The key things are being patient, proving you are a responsible prospective owner through the interviews/home visits, and working with a credible shelter or rescue group. The process is thorough to ensure good, permanent homes for the cats. Bon courage avec l'adoption!
Conclusion
Adopting a cat or dog in France as a foreigner is a rewarding experience that brings joy and companionship into your life.
By following these steps and utilizing the provided resources, you can ensure a smooth adoption process and provide a loving home for your new furry friend.
Enjoy the journey of welcoming a pet into your family, and bon courage avec l'adoption!
If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!
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