Is it better to adopt a kitten or an adult cat?

Kitten (0-6 months): more adaptable but needs lots of play, socialisation and vet visits (vaccines and later neutering). Adult cat (1+ years): personality already formed (you can choose a character that suits you), usually neutered and calmer. Shelters rehome kittens faster, so adopting an adult is also more supportive.

Can I adopt a single cat or do they need a companion?

It depends on the cat. Young, very sociable cats may need another cat if you're out for long hours. Solitary adult cats prefer to be the only one. The shelter will tell you what each cat needs.

What if I live in a flat and can't let them out?

That's fine — it's what's recommended in Spain for safety. Make sure windows have screens and balconies are secure (cats jump and can fall from surprising heights).

Is it true that cats aren't affectionate?

It's a myth. Cats choose who and when to show affection. Once they trust you, they are extremely loyal and loving. Some follow their human around the house like a dog.

What if I'm allergic?

There are hypoallergenic breeds (Siberian, Bengal, Sphynx), but the allergy is to a protein in saliva, not to hair. Before committing, spend time with the specific cat you want to adopt to see how you really react.

Responsible adoption

Adopt a shelter cat

Managed colonies and Spanish shelters have thousands of cats waiting for a family. Adopt with full health guarantees and the love of the people who rescued them.

Adopt and care for them for life — caring is helping.

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In summary

Adopting a shelter cat in Spain gives a rescued cat a second chance in exchange for a one-off donation (around €80-200) that covers vaccines, microchip, deworming, FeLV/FIV testing and neutering. The cat arrives checked by a vet and the shelter knows its character, which helps you choose well for your flat, your children or your other pets.

Updated on octubre de 2026 · reviewed by the Mizuu team.

Adoption donation: €80-200
Estimated yearly cost: €400-900
Life expectancy: 12-18 years
Space: adapts to a flat
Includes: vaccines, chip, FeLV/FIV test, neutering

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Guide

Before adopting a cat

Before adopting, be clear about the following. It will save you time and spare the pet an unnecessary change of home.

Indoor space: cats don't need much room, but they do need enrichment: scratching posts, high spots, interactive toys and safe windows.

Living together: adult cats are often solitary. If you already have a cat, introductions should be gradual (1-2 weeks) to avoid territorial conflicts.

Neutering: shelter cats usually arrive neutered (very young kittens are neutered at 4-5 months; the shelter will tell you when).

Indoor vs outdoor: in Spain, keeping cats 100% indoors is recommended. Roaming freely halves life expectancy (traffic, fights, FIV/FeLV).

Litter and food: an adult cat eats about 70 g a day. Premium food: €25-40 a month. Litter: €10-20 a month. Yearly vet: €100-150.

Life expectancy: 12-18 years for a well-cared-for indoor cat. That's a commitment of nearly two decades.

Health tests: in many cases the shelter has already done FIV/FeLV tests. If not, it's highly advisable before introducing the cat to another cat at home.

Children and cats: they can live together, but it takes supervision and teaching children not to disturb resting spots. Many adult cats prefer homes without young children.

Trust

Mizuu guarantees

Verified rescue centres

Every rescue centre goes through scoring + human review. Company registration number + charity register + verified responsible person.

Health record

Your pet carries a health record with their full medical history — accessible from any vet in the network, for their whole life.

7-30 day trial period

The rescue centre can offer a trial period before the final signing. If it does not work out, return at no cost.

Adopt near you

Madrid Barcelona Valencia Sevilla Málaga Zaragoza Murcia Alicante Bizkaia A Coruña Las Palmas Baleares

Frequently asked questions

Adopt them and care for them for life

Caring is helping: when you adopt, you give a second chance — and every gesture helps another pet find a home.

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