What is the best way to qualify someone that wants to adopt an animal from you?

Question

I don't want to scare off this person. I found a kitten that is at least 6 months old and this person who has 1 cat she says (no reason to doubt her) wants her after she's cleared (health). What are some things I should ask her? Should I visit her home? What is ok to ask and what is not? I've never done this before. I know that I will probably make some mistakes but I'd like to limit that. This is a very sweet kitten. She's adorable. I'm not charging a fee. I can't really keep the kitten. I could if I had to but it would be better if she found a better home where she will have more room. I have 2 indoor older kitties. I can't really afford the vet bills on a 3rd. It would be too difficult with the space we have. Keeping her is a last resort.

Answer 1

Great question!  Last year, I adopted 2 dogs from a rescue.  The people there asked for 2 personal references from people who could vouch that my fiance & I loved animals & would take care of them.  They also asked for the name of our vet, so they could verify that we kept up with their halthcare.  While we also have 2 cats, I don't know what you should look for in a home visit, so I wouldn't ask for one if I were in your situation.

Answer 2

Charge more then it costs to buy a feeder rat..  I keep snakes and know a few snake people that have great stories they tell people with free pets to get free snake food. I know a couple guys that pick up free pets every weekend including dogs, cats and even ferrets..

Your right, it's easy to scare off a decent person, but, a decent person will understand you charging more then it costs for a feeder rat, especially if you explain that. Typically, adult feeder rats are about $7. So, charging just $15 significantly cuts the risk the cat will go for that purpose.

I would just limit the questions to how many cats she's had in the last ten years, what happened to any previous cats, what does she think is a good reason to get rid of a cat, how would she get rid of the cat (some people just let them go or dump at kill shelter) how will she handle it if the new cat and old cat don't get along..  I don't ask to do a home check, people get nervous about that.. I just offer to drive the cat to their house since I'll be going that way anyhow - shopping, work, etc.. Most of the time people are thrilled that I'll deliver the cat.

I personally offer to take back the cat at any time and for any reason.. I also occasionally email, after one week and then like every 6 months to make sure things are working out..

Answer 3

okay, i would say definatly do a home check most proper rehoming centers would do that. also once youve checked her home and its okay it will help you with knowing that the kitten is going to a good home, and when you home check look at her cat and you will be able to tell weather its in good health, if she has nothing to hide and really wants this kitten then a home check shouldnt be a problem.

i would also get her to come and visit the kitten if she hasnt already at least once so you can see how she is with cats and weather the womens and the cats personality suit eachother.

you should check on what shes planning on feeding the kitten.

also ask her what vet shes taking her to now and planning on taking the kitten to.

im sure she will be fine with all these questions if she is not then maybe she isnt the right person to adopt this kitten, you dont want have any doubt in your mind that this kitten isnt going to be properly cared for. if you have a gut feeling not to give her the cat then dont you gut feeling is usually right, it doesnt have to be this person who takes her you can wait and maybe you'll find someone better.

good luck:) im sure everything will go to plan, and once youve carried out the homecheck im sure you'll feel very reasured.