Thank you for your interest in adopting from Meow or Never!
Please check out the information below on our adoption application process.
Please check out the information below on our adoption application process.
How do I adopt a cat or kitten from Meow or Never?
Providing a home to a cat in need is an incredibly rewarding experience, and we thank you for considering adoption.
Meow or Never’s cat adoption process is designed to ensure (as best as possible) that the correct match is being made for each Meow or Never cat. The following are the steps involved when adopting from Meow or Never:
Review Adoption Information
When you have read through all of our adoption information and are ready to adopt a new friend, you’ll move into our adoption process, which ensures safe and successful adoptions!
Submit Adoption Application
Complete and submit our online adoption application answering all questions honestly and with as much detail as possible. The application is carefully reviewed and compared against the specific needs and requirements of the rescue animal to ensure it is the best possible match.
Phone Conversation
Once your adoption application has been received and reviewed, approved applicants (not every applicant) will be contacted by one of Meow or Never’s volunteers. This is an opportunity to go over your adoption application, review our adoption process, discuss the cat in more detail, determine your needs and preferences, and talk about your previous experience with pets. This volunteer may or may not be the cat’s foster family. If requested by adopters, the foster family can call to help answer questions about the cat in their care. Foster homes get to know the rescue animal very well and can give you some insight into their daily lives, habits, personality etc.
Reference Checks
If applicable, we will call your veterinarian to ensure that previous pets have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and well cared for. We will also be looking to speak with a personal reference that you provide on your application. Please notify the people you have listed, as well as your vet clinic so they are aware that they will be hearing from to avoid unnecessary delays.
Approval and Adoption
If we determine that your family is the right fit for the cat you’ve applied for, we will arrange for pick-up or delivery of the cat to your home. The potential adopter will receive a copy of our adoption contract where EVERYONE who would be listed as adopter MUST review and sign if they are in agreement with the terms of our adoption contract. The signed adoption contract and adoption fee will be collected at this time, prior to the cat being placed in your care.
If you have questions about our adoption process or would like to learn more about one of Meow or Never’s adoptable cats, please contact us at [email protected].
Meow or Never’s cat adoption process is designed to ensure (as best as possible) that the correct match is being made for each Meow or Never cat. The following are the steps involved when adopting from Meow or Never:
Review Adoption Information
When you have read through all of our adoption information and are ready to adopt a new friend, you’ll move into our adoption process, which ensures safe and successful adoptions!
Submit Adoption Application
Complete and submit our online adoption application answering all questions honestly and with as much detail as possible. The application is carefully reviewed and compared against the specific needs and requirements of the rescue animal to ensure it is the best possible match.
Phone Conversation
Once your adoption application has been received and reviewed, approved applicants (not every applicant) will be contacted by one of Meow or Never’s volunteers. This is an opportunity to go over your adoption application, review our adoption process, discuss the cat in more detail, determine your needs and preferences, and talk about your previous experience with pets. This volunteer may or may not be the cat’s foster family. If requested by adopters, the foster family can call to help answer questions about the cat in their care. Foster homes get to know the rescue animal very well and can give you some insight into their daily lives, habits, personality etc.
Reference Checks
If applicable, we will call your veterinarian to ensure that previous pets have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and well cared for. We will also be looking to speak with a personal reference that you provide on your application. Please notify the people you have listed, as well as your vet clinic so they are aware that they will be hearing from to avoid unnecessary delays.
Approval and Adoption
If we determine that your family is the right fit for the cat you’ve applied for, we will arrange for pick-up or delivery of the cat to your home. The potential adopter will receive a copy of our adoption contract where EVERYONE who would be listed as adopter MUST review and sign if they are in agreement with the terms of our adoption contract. The signed adoption contract and adoption fee will be collected at this time, prior to the cat being placed in your care.
If you have questions about our adoption process or would like to learn more about one of Meow or Never’s adoptable cats, please contact us at [email protected].
What is the criteria for adopting from Meow or Never?
To adopt an animal from Meow or Never, a person must be:
- 21 years old with the responsibility for maintaining a household.
- Willing to allow a Meow or Never representative to conduct a home visit.
- Financially capable to provide for ALL veterinary care of the cat as needed, for the lifetime of the cat.
- Able to pay an adoption fee to help cover the costs of rescue care.
What are your adoption fees?
Our adoption fees start at $300.
Domestic Cats
Exotic/Specialty Breed Cats
Adoption fees may be subject to change depending on the individual cat. Fees may be subject to change without notice. Fees may also be subject to change depending on the individual cat. These fees are based on a normal adoption but are not guaranteed for any specific cat you are adopting. This is the base at which each adoption fee starts at.
As we are a volunteer-run rescue, 100% of the adoption fee goes directly towards furthering the rescue efforts of Meow or Never.
Domestic Cats
- Single Cat or Kitten – $300
- Senior Cats – Determined on a case-by-case basis
- Bonded Pair – $550
Exotic/Specialty Breed Cats
- Single Cat or Kitten – $550+
- Senior Cats – Determined on a case-by-case basis
- Bonded Pair – Determined on a case-by-case basis
Adoption fees may be subject to change depending on the individual cat. Fees may be subject to change without notice. Fees may also be subject to change depending on the individual cat. These fees are based on a normal adoption but are not guaranteed for any specific cat you are adopting. This is the base at which each adoption fee starts at.
As we are a volunteer-run rescue, 100% of the adoption fee goes directly towards furthering the rescue efforts of Meow or Never.
What is included in your adoption fees?
There is a required adoption fee for each cat adopted out through Meow or Never.
Adoption fee of a cat includes:
All cats, regardless of age, are taken to the veterinarian for a general check up. We strongly believe that the health and well being of each of our rescue animals is our responsibility as their guardians while in our care and as such, will not adopt out an animal that has not been vetted. Unless expressly agreed upon by both parties, in writing, all veterinary expenses incurred after the point of adoption are at the adopter’s expense.
Adoption fee of a cat includes:
- Spay/neuter (depending on age) (age appropriate – kittens adopted will need to be altered by one of our approved veterinary clinics when required at the rescue’s expense)
- Microchip
- Flea treatment
- First FVRCP vaccine (FVRCP - Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus and Panleukopenia [also known as Distemper])
- Up-to-date vaccinations
- Initial de-worming
- Parasite screening
- Rabies vaccination (depending on age)
- 7-day supply of food
- Other medical costs that may have been incurred while awaiting adoption in foster care, (i.e. dental, infection, surgery)
- Any additional tests or treatments will be outlined in the medical record.
All cats, regardless of age, are taken to the veterinarian for a general check up. We strongly believe that the health and well being of each of our rescue animals is our responsibility as their guardians while in our care and as such, will not adopt out an animal that has not been vetted. Unless expressly agreed upon by both parties, in writing, all veterinary expenses incurred after the point of adoption are at the adopter’s expense.
Why do you charge an adoption fee?
Our rescue is 100% volunteer based – we do NOT receive any municipal, provincial, or federal funding.
While our main goal is to place our rescue animals into permanent homes, in order to continue that mission, we must charge an adoption fee. There are two reasons why we charge an adoption fee:
Please be assured that 100% of the adoption fee goes directly towards furthering the rescue efforts of Meow or Never.
While our main goal is to place our rescue animals into permanent homes, in order to continue that mission, we must charge an adoption fee. There are two reasons why we charge an adoption fee:
- The sad reality is that we often get the unwanted, unvetted and uncared for animals. Many cats come to us in need of medical care.
The adoption fee collected for one successfully adopted pet will help to offset the cost of the vetting of the cat adopted and the next cat that we are able to save, and sadly there is always another who needs to be saved.
The adoption fees certainly do not cover the majority of an in-coming rescue’s medical costs. Our cats are true rescues and need more than your average pet’s vet care to get them healthy again. Veterinary costs for the special cases can run into thousands of dollars. Younger, healthier cats may not have quite the same needs as the older cats do but they too must be examined, vaccinated, dewormed, and altered prior to adoption. The adoption fee only partially covers these costs.
We do everything we possibly can to be sure we are adopting out a healthy, well-adjusted animal. - Charging an adoption fee helps ensure that all adopters are taking the process seriously and are not bringing home a cat on a whim. Before adopting a cat, please consider the cost of proper food and veterinary care and be sure that you are in a position to provide this long-term.
While some may believe the fees to be too high, the fact is, the cost involved in vetting these animals on your own would, in most cases, be much higher.
Please be assured that 100% of the adoption fee goes directly towards furthering the rescue efforts of Meow or Never.
What are your payment options?
We accept Interac e-Transfer.
Do you have a payment plan?
All fees must be paid in full on the day of adoption. Because a pet can require unexpected veterinary care, it is important that adopters are able to pay for these expenses as they happen.
Can I adopt from Meow or Never if I don't live in the London area?
Yes, we frequently adopt to those outside of our immediate area. Adopters do need to be prepared and willing to come to us for a meeting with the cat before final approval, bringing along each member of the family.
Please note: Meow or Never does NOT accept adoption applications from residents outside of the province of Ontario.
Please note: Meow or Never does NOT accept adoption applications from residents outside of the province of Ontario.
Can I meet a cat I am interesting in adopting before I complete and application?
Meow or Never is 100% supported by volunteer foster families, we do NOT have a shelter where you can go to meet our cats. Meet and greets can only be arranged for approved adopters.
Out of fairness to not only the foster homes themselves, but also to the cats that may have multiple families interested in them, we require all interested adopters to complete our adoption application first. Having every interested person coming to the home of our volunteers to meet our cats is not feasible. We prioritize visits with the best matched family.
The exception to this rule would be if you happen to attend one of our public adoption events (cancelled indefinitely due to COVID-19) and choose to submit an application after meeting one of our cats there.
Out of fairness to not only the foster homes themselves, but also to the cats that may have multiple families interested in them, we require all interested adopters to complete our adoption application first. Having every interested person coming to the home of our volunteers to meet our cats is not feasible. We prioritize visits with the best matched family.
The exception to this rule would be if you happen to attend one of our public adoption events (cancelled indefinitely due to COVID-19) and choose to submit an application after meeting one of our cats there.
I'm not sure which cat I'm interest in, can I still apply?
Yes, you can. Please provide us with as much information as you can on your application about what a suitable fit for your home would look like and we will do our best to make suggestions from our current adoptable cats.
I want to adopt a cat in a few months, can I apply now?
Please do not submit an application unless you are ready to adopt. This helps prevent your application from falling through the cracks and allows us to match our cats with applicants who are ready to welcome the cat into their family right away.
We do encourage potential adopters to keep an eye on our website and Facebook page once they are ready to adopt and apply then.
We do encourage potential adopters to keep an eye on our website and Facebook page once they are ready to adopt and apply then.
Do you have a policy on adopting kittens in pairs?
Yes, our policy is that all our kittens under 1 year of age must be either adopted into a home with another friendly cat or in pairs. This policy is for the good of the kittens AND the families adopting.
If you are unable to meet this criterion, please consider adopting a single older cat. While they often still enjoy the company of other felines, there are cats who also prefer to be the only cat in the home. As a foster based rescue, we can match the right cat to your home.
Exceptions may be made in certain circumstances, such as if a cat is not friendly with others, etc.
If you are unable to meet this criterion, please consider adopting a single older cat. While they often still enjoy the company of other felines, there are cats who also prefer to be the only cat in the home. As a foster based rescue, we can match the right cat to your home.
Exceptions may be made in certain circumstances, such as if a cat is not friendly with others, etc.
How long does it take to process my application?
We respect the time you've taken to fill out your adoption application, so we try to process it as quickly as possible. The process can take anywhere from a couple of days to a few weeks. This is dependent upon the availability of the applicant and volunteer conducting the interviews, the vet work required for the cat, and how quickly we are able to conduct the reference checks. Often we receive several applications for the same cats, and many applications come in after we post information on new adoptable cats.
We ask that you keep in mind that we are an organization staffed entirely by volunteers and we try to fit rescue work into our lives with work, family, and our personal pets. Sometimes it takes a little longer than we'd like, but please try to be patient. The rewards are well worth it.
Please ensure you have added [email protected] to your safe emails list to prevent replies from going to your junk mail.
PLEASE CHECK YOUR SPAM/JUNK FILTER FOR OUR REPLIES!
We ask that you keep in mind that we are an organization staffed entirely by volunteers and we try to fit rescue work into our lives with work, family, and our personal pets. Sometimes it takes a little longer than we'd like, but please try to be patient. The rewards are well worth it.
Please ensure you have added [email protected] to your safe emails list to prevent replies from going to your junk mail.
PLEASE CHECK YOUR SPAM/JUNK FILTER FOR OUR REPLIES!
I applied some time ago and haven't heard back. When will I hear from Meow or Never?
Please ensure you have added [email protected] to your safe emails list to prevent replies from going to your junk mail.
Under normal circumstances you should expect to hear from a volunteer within a week of submitting your application. If you've been waiting longer than 7 days, feel free to contact us.
Under normal circumstances you should expect to hear from a volunteer within a week of submitting your application. If you've been waiting longer than 7 days, feel free to contact us.
If my application is received first for the cat I like, will I get him/her?
Possibly. We are not a first-come, first-served rescue – being first doesn’t hurt, but it's also not a guarantee. Completion of the adoption application does not guarantee adoption of a pet.
Sometimes there are several people/families interested in the same cat. There can obviously only be one family or person chosen to adopt a cat, and it is Meow or Never’s responsibility to the cat and to the potential adopters to select the person or family that is best suited for a particular cat.
We try our very hardest to find the best match for our cats and our adopters. We commit to being as open and honest about the selection process as we can.
Sometimes there are several people/families interested in the same cat. There can obviously only be one family or person chosen to adopt a cat, and it is Meow or Never’s responsibility to the cat and to the potential adopters to select the person or family that is best suited for a particular cat.
We try our very hardest to find the best match for our cats and our adopters. We commit to being as open and honest about the selection process as we can.
If the cat I applied for is adopted by someone else, will you help me find another cat?
We will certainly try! We keep applications on file for a month’s time after submitting. If in that time frame we have another cat that would be suitable for your home, you will not need to submit another application. We will attempt to match your preferences to another cats’ personality and needs.
Will you allow us to bring a cat home for a day/weekend visit before we commit to adoption?
Generally, no, we cannot allow for pre-adoption visits due to liability reasons. We may, however, consider allowing it on a case-by-case basis.
Why was my application denied?
There are numerous reasons why an application may be rejected in general, or for a particular pet, depending on the needs of each pet. Completion of the adoption application does not guarantee adoption of a pet.
Meow or Never reserves the right to refuse an application if the home situation or environment is deemed incompatible with the needs of the cat applied for. We have these pets in our care for some time and truly get to know what each of their needs are, and what type of home is most suitable for each of them. This process is the best policy for you, our rescue and the cats. We do understand that this sometimes can cause hurt feelings and it is certainly not our intention to do so.
Please understand our position and that our number one responsibility is the best possible placement for each pet.
Meow or Never reserves the right to refuse any adoption application.
Meow or Never reserves the right to refuse an application if the home situation or environment is deemed incompatible with the needs of the cat applied for. We have these pets in our care for some time and truly get to know what each of their needs are, and what type of home is most suitable for each of them. This process is the best policy for you, our rescue and the cats. We do understand that this sometimes can cause hurt feelings and it is certainly not our intention to do so.
Please understand our position and that our number one responsibility is the best possible placement for each pet.
Meow or Never reserves the right to refuse any adoption application.
Are all of your cats spayed or neutered?
Absolutely! All Meow or Never cats are spayed/neutered in order to help control the population of unwanted cats.
Adoptable cats over the age of ? months will be spayed or neutered before they are adopted out. Kittens adopted under the age of ? months will be spayed/neutered by one of our approved veterinary clinics when required at the rescue’s expense.
Adoptable cats over the age of ? months will be spayed or neutered before they are adopted out. Kittens adopted under the age of ? months will be spayed/neutered by one of our approved veterinary clinics when required at the rescue’s expense.
Are all of your cats microchipped?
Yes. Due to the sheer number of stray/lost cats we see at shelters and pounds, we feel it is very important that each and every cat be microchipped at time of adoption. If your cat becomes lost, you have a much greater chance of getting your beloved pet home if he/she is microchipped. The microchip is included in the adoption fee.
My current pet is not spayed or neutered - is that a problem?
We will not consider a home with an unaltered dog or cat. Our policy is that all cats and dogs should be spayed/neutered unless there is a medical reason for why your pet cannot be spayed/neutered.
Why do you ask for our vet details?
It is important to have a health care plan arranged before you bring your pet home. A vet check can be important in determining whether or not an applicant is a responsible pet owner.
How do I prepare my home for a new cat?
We recommend that you start with the following supplies:
Carrier or Crate
The first thing you need is a cat carrier or crate. It should be safe and sturdy with plenty of ventilation and easy access for you to get your kitty in and out. A cardboard box doesn't allow for enough air access, and a scared cat could probably claw her way through it. A plastic carrier with a locking door on the front should be sturdy enough and also provide the right amount of accessibility.
Food and Water Bowls
Your cat should have food and water bowls waiting for him upon his arrival. The bottoms of the bowls should be weighted to avoid tipping. If you've adopted a kitten, consider purchasing smaller, shallower bowls designed specifically for kittens. Bowls should be cleaned daily and placed far from the litter box, as cats don't like to eat and relieve themselves in the same location.
Litter Box and Litter
There are several styles of litter boxes to choose from. Many cat owners prefer a plain plastic box with kitty litter inside, but it does require some upkeep. There are also self-cleaning litter boxes and hooded litter boxes.
A self-cleaning litter box has a mechanism that rakes the dirty litter after your cat has used the box. While some owners appreciate the cleaning help this offers, these boxes are quite expensive, and the mechanism can sometimes frighten cats.
A hooded litter box has a tall cover designed to give the cat some privacy while hiding the mess often found in litter boxes. This can also help keep litter from being tossed over the box's edge and onto the floor. However, some cats are afraid of the hood and will not use an enclosed litter box.
The right litter can go a long way when introducing a new cat into your home. We can provide suggestions based on your needs and the needs of your adopted cat.
Scratching Post
Cats need to scratch, and a cat scratching post can help with that urge. Make sure the post has a sturdy base to keep it from tipping over. It should be at least as tall as the cat so she can stand on her hind legs and get a good stretch while she's scratching.
Bed
Many cats will happily fall asleep anywhere, but a cat bed will be a favorite napping spot. The bed should be warm and soft, and it should be placed in a place that makes your kitty feel comfortable and safe. Make sure whichever bed you choose is large enough for your cat to lay down in and have some room to stretch but small enough to help him feel secure.
Toys
Cats love to play; make sure you provide your cat with a variety of safe toys. Pouncing is a favorite activity of cats, so balls and catnip-filled mice are good options. To avoid the danger of your cat choking on a toy, do not give him toys with small parts that can be torn off, such as bells, feathers, or pom-poms. Examine each toy to make sure it's safe for your cat before giving it to him.
Collar and ID Tag
Your cat should wear a breakaway collar with an ID tag at all times. The tag should have your name, address, and telephone number on it. The collar should have an automatic release that will disengage if your cat gets stuck on something, like a tree branch. Make sure the collar fits properly and won't irritate your cat's neck or affect her breathing and swallowing. A general rule is to allow enough room for two fingers to fit between the collar and the neck. Be sure that the collar fits snugly not allowing more than 2 finger widths to fit between the neck and the collar.
If you have an open trash can in your kitchen, you may want to move it behind a cabinet door such as under the sink. If this is not possible, replacing an open trash can with a secure lid is highly advised.
Taping or tucking electrical, phone, and computer cords up and out of reach is especially important.
Keep cleaning supplies and poisons locked away! Rat poisons, roach hotels, and other poisons should not be used when having a cat or kitten in the house. If they must be used, make sure they are picked up before a cat can find it and chew on it like a toy.
Carrier or Crate
The first thing you need is a cat carrier or crate. It should be safe and sturdy with plenty of ventilation and easy access for you to get your kitty in and out. A cardboard box doesn't allow for enough air access, and a scared cat could probably claw her way through it. A plastic carrier with a locking door on the front should be sturdy enough and also provide the right amount of accessibility.
Food and Water Bowls
Your cat should have food and water bowls waiting for him upon his arrival. The bottoms of the bowls should be weighted to avoid tipping. If you've adopted a kitten, consider purchasing smaller, shallower bowls designed specifically for kittens. Bowls should be cleaned daily and placed far from the litter box, as cats don't like to eat and relieve themselves in the same location.
Litter Box and Litter
There are several styles of litter boxes to choose from. Many cat owners prefer a plain plastic box with kitty litter inside, but it does require some upkeep. There are also self-cleaning litter boxes and hooded litter boxes.
A self-cleaning litter box has a mechanism that rakes the dirty litter after your cat has used the box. While some owners appreciate the cleaning help this offers, these boxes are quite expensive, and the mechanism can sometimes frighten cats.
A hooded litter box has a tall cover designed to give the cat some privacy while hiding the mess often found in litter boxes. This can also help keep litter from being tossed over the box's edge and onto the floor. However, some cats are afraid of the hood and will not use an enclosed litter box.
The right litter can go a long way when introducing a new cat into your home. We can provide suggestions based on your needs and the needs of your adopted cat.
Scratching Post
Cats need to scratch, and a cat scratching post can help with that urge. Make sure the post has a sturdy base to keep it from tipping over. It should be at least as tall as the cat so she can stand on her hind legs and get a good stretch while she's scratching.
Bed
Many cats will happily fall asleep anywhere, but a cat bed will be a favorite napping spot. The bed should be warm and soft, and it should be placed in a place that makes your kitty feel comfortable and safe. Make sure whichever bed you choose is large enough for your cat to lay down in and have some room to stretch but small enough to help him feel secure.
Toys
Cats love to play; make sure you provide your cat with a variety of safe toys. Pouncing is a favorite activity of cats, so balls and catnip-filled mice are good options. To avoid the danger of your cat choking on a toy, do not give him toys with small parts that can be torn off, such as bells, feathers, or pom-poms. Examine each toy to make sure it's safe for your cat before giving it to him.
Collar and ID Tag
Your cat should wear a breakaway collar with an ID tag at all times. The tag should have your name, address, and telephone number on it. The collar should have an automatic release that will disengage if your cat gets stuck on something, like a tree branch. Make sure the collar fits properly and won't irritate your cat's neck or affect her breathing and swallowing. A general rule is to allow enough room for two fingers to fit between the collar and the neck. Be sure that the collar fits snugly not allowing more than 2 finger widths to fit between the neck and the collar.
If you have an open trash can in your kitchen, you may want to move it behind a cabinet door such as under the sink. If this is not possible, replacing an open trash can with a secure lid is highly advised.
Taping or tucking electrical, phone, and computer cords up and out of reach is especially important.
Keep cleaning supplies and poisons locked away! Rat poisons, roach hotels, and other poisons should not be used when having a cat or kitten in the house. If they must be used, make sure they are picked up before a cat can find it and chew on it like a toy.
Can I return my adopted cat?
Often times we do not have a complete history and therefore we cannot make any guarantees regarding past handling, temperament or health.
If your new pet animal becomes sick or exhibits behavioural problems within the first fourteen (14) days following adoption, and you are not prepared to take responsibility for associated costs, you may return the animal to us for a refund of the adoption fee. A $? non-refundable administration fee paid at the time of adoption will not be reimbursed.
If your new pet animal becomes sick or exhibits behavioural problems within the first fourteen (14) days following adoption, and you are not prepared to take responsibility for associated costs, you may return the animal to us for a refund of the adoption fee. A $? non-refundable administration fee paid at the time of adoption will not be reimbursed.
What should I do if I can no longer keep my Meow or Never cat?
Our hope is that all homes are a forever home, however we understand that circumstances can change.
Adopter’s that cannot continue to provide a home for an animal adopted from Meow or Never agree to return him/her to Meow or Never.
Adopter's that cannot continue to provide a home for an animal adopted from Meow or Never will not surrender the animal to an animal shelter, humane society, pound, or another rescue, nor will he/she be sold, given to, exchanged, or adopted to anyone else without consent from Meow or Never.
Adopter’s that cannot continue to provide a home for an animal adopted from Meow or Never agree to return him/her to Meow or Never.
Adopter's that cannot continue to provide a home for an animal adopted from Meow or Never will not surrender the animal to an animal shelter, humane society, pound, or another rescue, nor will he/she be sold, given to, exchanged, or adopted to anyone else without consent from Meow or Never.
Can I foster a cat in my home?
Thank you for your interest, however we are currently not accepting applications for new foster homes.