Factors affecting the selection of cats by adopters

Factors that contribute to the selection and nonselection of cats by potential adopters were examined. A survey sent by e-mail was conducted of cat adopters who completed the adoption process during 2011 at Loudoun County Animal Services located in Waterford, Virginia. The survey addressed the reasons people gave for adopting their cat as well as cat and environmental factors. A response rate of 41% (n = 97) was achieved, and all responses were used for analysis. The results indicate that adopters primarily choose a cat for companionship and that cat behavioral factors, such as playfulness and willingness to interact with the adopter, are the main criteria used in the adoption decision. Cage location also plays a role in the selection process. Together, these findings suggest that to increase adoption rates, shelters should focus their efforts on improving cat sociability and enhancing opportunities for adopters to view and interact with cats.