FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I prepare for my home check?
You'll need to have the essentials, such as a litter box, kitty litter, food and water bowls, cat food, a scratching post, and toys. Cats like shallow bowls that won't irritate their whiskers, and the cat food you select should be high in protein with a moderate amount of fat and fewer carbohydrates.

What is "Catification"?
A term coined by Jackson Galaxy (The Cat Daddy) - it’s about creating a feline-friendly environment catering to a cat’s natural instincts. Examples include creating opportunities for your cat to climb, perch, play, rest, and to feel like they have their own space. The approach posits that it’s not enough to just have a cat in your home, but you must provide them the type of space that also appeals to them. As humans, we want a comfortable space that fulfills our needs, and our furry roommates deserve the same courtesy. Catifying your space will not only make your cat happier and secure, but it can also nip a lot of problems in the bud - like unwanted behaviors. We want them to live the most enriched indoor life as possible!

What is the best kind of diet?
There are several styles to consider and you need to think of what is best for your schedule and budget. It's worth researching this topic to decide how you plan to proceed and make any changes gradually. Free feeding, combination feeding, scheduled feeding, or a raw diet are all options. Regardless of choice you always want to select high quality food to ensure their optimal health. You'll see it in their body condition, the brightness of their eyes, and the sleekness of their coats. Making good choices here will result in having your pal with you for as long as possible.

How often do you feed them?
During the first six months of life, kittens need to eat three meals each day. Between the ages of six and 12 months, adjust to twice each day. Adult cats will often settle into a pattern of eating one or two times a day.

What is the best kind of wet/dry food?
High quality wet/dry, grain and by-product free - either canned food + dry, or raw only. We educate our adopters on the benefits of this principle and also educate the public on healthy food. We are happy to provide suggestions and your vet will be able to do the same.

What is the best kind of litter?
We like grain based and natural pellet litters when possible and educate adopters and the public on their pros and cons. 

How often should I clean bowls and change water?
Daily to prevent bacteria growth. The best bowls are stainless steel or ceramic.

How often should I play with my cat?
Play with your cat when the cat is naturally active, keeping the play sessions short. Ideally, you should play with your cat for two or three sessions of about ten minutes each day. Your cat will let you know when it's done playing; it will probably just walk away from you. Shining a laser pointer around the room is a great way to get a cat moving. Puzzle toys with hidden food treats often keep a cat entertained. Wand toys are also great tools to help a human and cat interact and play together.

Does my cat need a buddy?
A single cat can still be happy, healthy, and well-adjusted. Just make sure to set aside quality time for human companionship, and keep his environment entertaining and interesting. Although cats have a reputation as solitary animals, they are social creatures and can thrive on forming close bonds with other creatures. Certain changes in behavior, such as irregular sleeping, eating, or grooming habits, may indicate that a cat is lonely and could benefit from some feline companionship.

How come you say kittens need a buddy?
A lonely kitten can be a real “cat-tastrophe” for felines and humans alike. With Single Kitten Syndrome, kittens grow up to be cats with “cattitude.” They tend to play too roughly and often get returned when they reach adulthood when their behavior isn't so cute anymore. We believe in long term positive relationships and creating happy forever homes. This is why we do not adopt out kittens as singles unless we know that a young cat has proven to prefer human companionship. 

Do I need my own vet?
It's important to have a veterinarian lined up to begin ongoing health care for your cat.

What type of ongoing care does a cat need?
All adult cats should be seen by their veterinarian at least once a year for a routine wellness examination. This annual check-up draws a baseline of the cat's normal physical condition, which lets the vet easily spot differences in the cat's condition should illness or emergencies arise. You'll need to stay on top of their vaccines as well as monthly flea control, so it's important to establish a relationship with a vet you trust. We will always be happy to lend advice prior to a vet visit if you give us a weeks notice ahead of the appointment via email.

Should I have paper copies of my cats medical record?
Yes. The most important records to keep are those that show blood work, long-term medications, or contain other diagnostic results. You will get the more focused treatment because vets can pick up where the last veterinarian left off.

Where should I keep my cat's medical records?
We recommend keeping a waterproof file folder with all of your records close to your pets carrier so you can grab it and go ASAP if needed. We also recommend keeping things like your vet's card, office hours, and nearest emergency hospital location info in this file as well.

Should I purchase medical insurance for my cat?
We encourage all adopters to consider adding their cats to a medical insurance plan to help offset any future costs. There are many options available ranging from everyday care through major medical expenses. This is a worthwhile investment in their health and your future ability to offset costs in the event of an accident or future health issue. The earlier in their lives this is done the more reasonable the plan will be - often as low as $20 a month. At the very least, consider starting a savings account and set aside a little every month so you'll never be without options in the event of an emergency.

Can I contact SNMLA if I have questions about medical concerns, the advice from my vet, or any treatment plans?
We are always here to help and advise! We are as invested in their ongoing health as you are even if it's 10 years from the time you adopted.

Why do I need to keep my cat inside?
There are MANY reasons we insist SNMLA cats must remain indoors. From parasites & diseases which are rampant in LA, fights with un-vaccinated animals, being hit by a car, running into predators (both human and animal), getting lost or stolen etc. Often our cats are with us from the time they're born or very close to it - they have ZERO life skills outside of a home environment. Make their lives enriched indoors and they won't every face the danger's of the outdoors. A city is no place for a roaming cat. 

Why does Stray No More keep my cat chipped to the rescue?
The cats from our rescue remain chipped to us for their own safety. In the event of something happening to you, you cannot always guarantee what will happen to them. This way, if they ever wind up in a shelter, we can always go get them back! We ask that adopters always alert us to changes of address, phone, or email contact information - we add you as a contact on the chip registry.

Why does each cat need it's own carrier?
In most cases, it is better to have separate carriers that fit each of your cats rather than having them travel together in one big carrier. Cramming two cats into one carrier is difficult, uncomfortable, and very stressful. Some cats also experience travel aggression and it can be dangerous for them and you when in transit.

Why do you discourage leash training?
The main thing to be aware of is the risk of injury to your cat. Cats naturally try to run or hide from danger, and if they attempt to flee they could hurt themselves on the lead or harness. Escaped cats can become tangled in their harness, also causing damage or terrified of a trailing leash if you let go. Walking on a leash might also cause some cats stress – they like to be in control of their surroundings, and being restricted might cause them extra anxiety. If you decide that harness training your cat is a good idea, make sure to tune into your cat’s emotions and respond quickly if you notice them becoming stressed or anxious about the experience. We're not saying it can't be done, but it takes at least a year of training to achieve any success.

Why shouldn't I let my cat eat plants?
Many plants are poisonous or toxic to cats and kittens. If you notice your furry friend eating any plant that you're unsure of, call your vet. 

What are some top home hazards?
String or ribbons, getting locked in cabinets or machines, being fed milk (they're lactose intolerant once they have been weaned), wires, poorly screened windows or balconies, houseplants, rubber bands, pins/plastic etc.