One way to find the furry friend you're looking for is to use a tool as vast and useful as the internet . These days, most animal shelters have their own website or profile on one or more social media platforms where they upload pictures of the dogs and/or cats they currently have. But they're not the only ones: individuals also post ads showing the pets they're giving away.
However, adopting cats responsibly online isn't easy. Many people will try to scam you, so at Noti Gatos we'll tell you how to avoid these problems so you can find the cat you're looking for.
Adopt your cat in a Shelter
The best way to avoid being scammed is to adopt cats directly from a shelter , but not just any shelter. It's not advisable to adopt the first cat you see that you like without looking at others, as you might like another one better. And even then, you won't know for sure if that's really the animal you want until you see it in person, so it's best to first look at photos of the animals they have available for adoption through their website or profile, and then, when you find one or more that you like, go and see them.
When visiting a shelter, ask about their veterinary protocols ( vaccination , deworming, feline leukemia and FIV testing , microchip identification, and sterilization). Typically, these services are included in the adoption, and the adoption process must be in person (they don't ship animals). They may also request a pre-adoption interview or visit and the signing of a contract, along with proof of identity and a donation to help cover veterinary expenses.
Verify that the organization is legal and transparent : search for its tax identification number (NIF/CIF), address, bylaws, and references on Google or social media. If it's a municipal center or official body, check its presence in public directories and request official contact information . Always ask for the adoption contract in advance so you can read it carefully.
How to avoid being fooled by individuals
It often happens that someone has a litter of kittens and is looking for homes for them. But you have to be careful . There are several things you should look out for before contacting them, and these are:
- LanguageIt's easy to find an ad written, apparently, in a specific language. But only apparently. Many people write the text in their own language and then use an online translator. You should know that these translators aren't accurate, so if you notice anything strange when reading the ad text, it's better to translate it. distrust.
- Contact details: every ad must include at least one phone number to be able to contact the advertiser.
- Photos: the advertiser must have included photos of kittens.
- Do not take kittens less than two months old: from birth until they are 2 months old, they must be with their mother and siblings so that they can learn to be and behave as they are: cats.
If you see one you like, don't hesitate to contact the advertiser. They should be friendly and answer all your questions.
In addition, always request to see the kittens in person with their mother, avoid paying any shipping costs upfront, ask for a transfer agreement , and if you have any doubts, arrange to meet in a public place or at the veterinary clinic where you will have the initial check-up. Signs of unjustified urgency or pressure to close the deal are usually a bad sign.
Add anti-scam filters: never pay for shipping from abroad , be wary of profiles with no history or stock photos, and verify the address or go with the person to their regular veterinarian. If they don't provide a reliable way to contact you, it's best to rule them out.
Platforms and apps for online adoption
Alongside shelter websites, there are free platforms and apps designed to connect adopters with shelters. Among the best-known are Miwuki Pet Shelter , AdoptaMe, and Mascomad , and the industry often mentions several more options , providing a wide range of alternatives. These platforms allow you to filter by age, size, sex, compatibility, and location, set up alerts , and contact the responsible organization.
These apps bring together many animal shelters and rescue organizations, complementing their existing social media outreach to raise awareness of urgent or overlooked cases . Always use the official channels listed for each animal to communicate and confirm that the organization is legitimate before sharing any information.
Extra tip: Check the date the profile is updated , confirm availability by phone or email, and save screenshots of key case information (status, requirements, contact) in case it changes.
What do the statuses on adoption forms mean?
Many websites display a status indicator in each case. The most common thing to find is:
- For adoption: The kitten is available and the process can be started normally.
- Urgent: for reasons of health, space or risk their adoption or foster care is prioritized.
- Reserved: There is a request in progress, pending confirmation; it may become available again.
- In foster care: the cat is in a temporary home with volunteering until adoption.
- Adopted: The case has been closed with one family and is no longer available.
These statuses are updated quickly; if you are interested in a case, activate alerts and stay in contact with the entity so as not to miss opportunities.
Do you want to help, but can't adopt right now?
If you can't adopt a cat right now, there are ways to help : sponsoring and fostering (you cover the costs of a cat that isn't yet ready for adoption), temporary fostering , donations of supplies or money, volunteering , and spreading the word on social media. These actions support the rescue and care work until permanent adoptions are made.
Value digital volunteering (network management, design, case dissemination) or logistical support such as providing transportation to clinics or shelters. Donate food, sand, or prescription medication if the organization requests it.
Common adoption process and requirements
In most shelters, the cat is adopted out with identification , deworming , and up-to-date vaccinations ; male cats are tested for feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) , and are usually neutered if age permits. It's standard practice to sign a contract , present an ID or equivalent document, and contribute a fee to cover some of the treatments. Some organizations even offer regular checkups and certain veterinary services on an ongoing basis at their own facilities as a way to promote responsible adoption.
Remember that responsible adoptions are done in person , verifying the suitability of the home and answering questions transparently; sending animals by courier is not part of ethical practices.
To expedite the process, complete the application forms , provide references if requested, and be available for the pre-adoption visit . Confirm by phone that the case is still active (some websites may be outdated) and request a copy of the contract outlining the terms and conditions (sterilization, follow-up, responsible return if necessary).
Bringing a new cat home takes time to adjust : many cats need 7 to 14 days to settle in. Prepare a safe room , introduce your cat gradually to other animals, and consider using pheromone diffusers to reduce stress.
We hope you find these tips useful 
Adopting online can be easy and safe if you use animal shelters , reliable platforms , carefully read the pet profiles, and understand the process . With information and patience, your new companion will arrive home with all the necessary guarantees.
