Cat Rehoming Alternatives

Housing Issues (Landlord Won’t Allow Cats)

Before giving up your cat, try exploring these possibilities:

• Speak with your landlord to see if exceptions, additional deposits, or written pet agreements are an option.

• Ask whether spayed/neutered cats or vaccinated cats are permitted — some landlords only restrict unaltered pets.

• Search for local cat-friendly housing in the Chippewa Valley; many listings are available on rental websites and local Facebook housing groups.

• If moving soon, consider short-term boarding with trusted friends or family until stable housing is secured.
  

Litterbox or Behavioral Concerns

Many common cat behaviors are fixable with the right approach.

• Veterinary check-up: Sudden changes such as inappropriate urination, hiding, vocalizing, or aggression can be caused by treatable medical issues (UTIs, dental pain, stress, arthritis, etc.).

• Litterbox adjustments:

  • Add an additional box (one per cat + one extra is ideal).

  • Try a different style of litter or box.

  • Scoop boxes daily and deep-clean weekly.

  • Ensure boxes are in quiet, low-stress areas.

• Environmental enrichment: Scratching posts, window perches, puzzle feeders, and routine play can greatly reduce unwanted behaviors.

• Stress reduction: New pets, construction, new furniture, or schedule changes can trigger stress. Using calming pheromone diffusers (like Feliway) may help.

• Professional help: Feline behavior consultants can offer personalized solutions for persistent issues.

Many cats who struggle in one home thrive once simple changes are made. Behavioral challenges do not automatically mean surrender is the only option.

Allergies in the Home

Allergies are often manageable with small adjustments:

• Create a pet-free zone (such as the bedroom).

• Use HEPA air purifiers and wash bedding regularly.

• Vacuum and dust frequently using allergen-reducing products.

• Ask your doctor about allergy testing or medications — many people are allergic to dust, mold, or other allergens, not the cat itself.

• Bathe your cat occasionally with a vet-approved shampoo, or use cat-safe grooming wipes to reduce dander.

For many families, a combination of medical support and environmental changes makes keeping their cat possible.

Financial Hardship

If finances are making cat care difficult, we may have resources that can help:

• CHA’s Pet Supply Pantry, when stocked, can provide food or basic supplies.

• Local veterinarians often offer payment plans, wellness packages, or low-cost vaccines.

• Community programs and pet organizations sometimes assist with spay/neuter, medical care, or food support.

• Ask trusted friends or family for temporary assistance with supplies during tough months.

Cats are often more affordable to care for than people expect, and support exists to help you through financial challenges.

Steps to Try Before Surrendering Your Cat

If you’ve explored the alternatives above and still feel unable to keep your cat:

1. Rehome Safely Through People You Know

• Ask friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, and trusted community members.

• Post to local social media groups with clear photos and personality information.

• Never give away a cat “free to a good home” — always screen potential adopters.

2. Screen Rehoming Applicants Carefully

• Meet adopters in person.

• Ask for a valid ID.

• Ensure they understand long-term cat care and vet needs.

• Have them sign a rehoming agreement asking them to return the cat to you if they can’t keep it.

3. Contact Local Rescue Partners

Some rescues may have room for a surrender, placement program, or courtesy posting.

If Surrendering Is the Only Option…

If keeping your cat is no longer possible after exploring all alternatives, please visit our Surrender page to review guidelines and schedule an appointment. CHA accepts surrenders from our contracted areas by appointment only so we can ensure we have space and resources available.

Our goal is always to support both you and your pet with compassion and respect.