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Does Petco Have Cats? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, Petco does have cats, but not in the way you might think. Unlike puppies and other small animals that are often sold directly, Petco does not typically sell cats directly from breeders. Instead, Petco partners with local animal shelters and rescue organizations to host cat adoption events in their stores. This approach promotes cat adoption, reduces overcrowding in shelters, and connects loving homes with cats in need.

Understanding Petco’s Cat Adoption Program

Petco’s commitment to animal welfare is evident in its business model. Rather than supporting breeding mills or directly selling cats, they dedicate space within their stores to facilitate cat adoptions through partnerships with local rescues. This is a key differentiator that positions Petco as a responsible and ethical pet retailer.

How Cat Adoptions Work at Petco

When you visit a Petco store, you might see cats housed in designated adoption areas. These cats aren’t owned by Petco; they’re under the care of the partnering rescue organization. Here’s a breakdown of the typical process:

Rescue Partnership: Petco partners with local shelters and rescue groups.
Cat Placement: The rescue organization places cats in the Petco store, usually in purpose-built enclosures.
Adoption Application: Potential adopters complete an application with the rescue organization, not Petco.
Screening and Approval: The rescue screens applicants to ensure a suitable home.
Adoption Completion: If approved, the adoption is finalized directly with the rescue, and they usually collect the adoption fee. Petco provides space and resources but isn’t directly involved in the financial transaction.

Benefits of Adopting Through Petco

Adopting a cat from a rescue organization hosted at Petco offers multiple advantages:

Support a Good Cause: You’re giving a deserving cat a second chance and supporting the rescue’s work.
Known History: Rescue organizations often have a good understanding of the cat’s history, temperament, and health.
Health Checks: Most cats available for adoption through rescues are vaccinated, dewormed, and spayed/neutered.
Convenience: Petco offers a convenient location to meet and interact with cats from different local rescues.
Access to Supplies: You can immediately purchase all the necessary cat supplies – food, litter, toys, etc. – from Petco.
Reduced Shelter Overcrowding: Adoption helps alleviate overcrowding in local shelters, freeing up resources for other animals in need.

Finding a Cat at Your Local Petco

While Petco doesn’t have cats available for sale on a daily basis, you can often find scheduled adoption events. To find out when and where these events are happening, check the following:

Petco Website: Many Petco stores advertise adoption events on their website’s local store pages.
Local Rescue Organizations’ Websites: Participating rescue organizations usually announce their Petco adoption events on their websites and social media pages.
In-Store Signage: Visit your local Petco and look for posters or flyers announcing upcoming adoption events.
Call Your Local Petco: The easiest way to get information is often a quick phone call to your local store.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you understand Petco’s cat-related policies and procedures:

Does Petco sell cats directly? No, Petco does not sell cats directly. They partner with local animal shelters and rescue organizations to facilitate cat adoptions.
Are the cats at Petco owned by Petco? No, the cats present in Petco stores for adoption are owned and cared for by the partner rescue organization.
How do I adopt a cat from Petco? You’ll need to complete an adoption application with the partnering rescue organization and meet their screening criteria.
What are the adoption fees for cats at Petco? The adoption fees are determined by the rescue organization, not Petco. Fees vary but typically cover vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other medical costs.
Does Petco offer any adoption incentives? Sometimes, Petco offers discounts or coupons for supplies when you adopt a cat from their partner rescues. Ask the rescue organization or a Petco employee for more information.
Can I bring my own cat to Petco? Yes, but generally only if they’re properly contained (carrier or leash and harness) and for specific purposes, such as vet visits in partnership with Petco or for grooming. However, check with your specific store for their policy.
Does Petco offer veterinary services for cats? Yes, many Petco stores have in-store veterinary clinics or partner with local veterinarians to provide services like vaccinations, check-ups, and minor treatments.
What cat supplies does Petco sell? Petco sells a comprehensive range of cat supplies, including food, litter, toys, beds, scratching posts, carriers, and more.
Does Petco offer cat grooming services? Yes, most Petco stores offer cat grooming services, including bathing, brushing, nail trimming, and haircuts.
What happens if I have problems after adopting a cat from Petco? Contact the rescue organization you adopted the cat from. They can provide guidance and support.
How can my rescue organization partner with Petco? Rescue organizations can contact their local Petco store manager or visit the Petco Love Lost website to learn more about partnership opportunities.
Is Petco Love Lost related to Petco’s adoption program? Yes, Petco Love Lost is a free, national lost and found pet database that Petco supports. It helps reunite lost pets with their owners and can also be used by rescue organizations to manage their adoptable pets.

Petco: More Than Just a Pet Store

Petco’s commitment to animal welfare extends beyond providing pet supplies. Their adoption programs and partnerships with local rescues demonstrate a genuine dedication to finding loving homes for cats in need. By choosing to adopt from a Petco partner rescue, you’re not only gaining a wonderful companion but also supporting a network of organizations dedicated to saving lives and improving the lives of animals in your community.

So, while Petco may not sell cats, they are a valuable resource for cat adoption, offering a convenient and ethical way to find your next feline friend. Remember to check their website, contact your local store, or connect with local rescue organizations to learn about upcoming adoption events and available cats in your area.