Does PetSmart Have Cats? Top Ways to Cat Adoptions & Care in 2025
If you’re looking to bring home a new feline friend, you might be wondering if PetSmarts sells cats. The simple answer is no PetSmarts doesn’t sell cats or kittens. But don’t worry! They do help cats find loving homes through their adoption program.
How Cat Adoptions Work at PetSmarts
PetSmart partners with local animal shelters and rescue groups to help cats get adopted. Instead of selling cats, they provide space in their stores where shelters can showcase cats that need homes. You’ll usually find these adoptable cats in special “cat condo” displays near the front of the store.
The cats you see at PetSmart come from shelters and rescue organizations. This means you’re giving a cat a second chance at life when you adopt from them. The staff caring for these cats are typically volunteers from the partner shelters, not PetSmart employees.
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What to Expect When Adopting
When you find a cat you like at PetSmarts, you’ll need to go through the shelter’s adoption process. This usually involves filling out an application and paying an adoption fee. The fee typically ranges from 50 to in 150 dollars which is much less than buying from a breeder.
Your adoption fee generally includes:
- Spay or neuter surgery
- First set of vaccinations
- Sometimes microchipping
- Often a free vet check
Why Doesn’t PetSmart Sell Cats?
PetSmart made the decision not to sell cats because they want to help reduce the number of homeless pets. By working with shelters, they help cats who might otherwise not find homes. This approach also helps avoid supporting kitten mills or irresponsible breeding practices.
When Are Cats Available?
Some PetSmart locations have cats available every day, while others only have them during special adoption events. Weekends tend to be the best time to visit if you’re looking to adopt. It’s always a good idea to call your local store first to check their schedule.
What If My PetSmart Doesn’t Have Cats?
If your nearest PetSmart doesn’t currently have cats available, don’t worry! You can try:
- Checking back during weekend adoption events
- Visiting a nearby Petco (they have a similar program)
- Contacting local animal shelters directly
PetSmart plays an important role in helping cats find loving homes through its adoption programs. While you can’t buy cats at PetSmart, their stores serve as adoption centers for local shelters and rescue groups. Here’s everything you need to know about finding and caring for a cat through PetSmart.
How PetSmart’s Cat Adoption Program Works
PetSmart partners with PetSmart Charities and local animal welfare organizations to help homeless cats find families. Unlike pet stores that sell puppies from breeders, PetSmart does not sell cats – all felines available are rescue animals up for adoption.
Where Do the Cats Come From?
- Local animal shelters
- Rescue organizations (like ASPCA or Humane Society)
- Foster-based cat rescues
- Owner surrenders (in some cases)
These organizations bring adoptable cats to PetSmart locations where they stay in special “cat” condos”—comfortable glass enclosures that allow them to be visible to potential adopters while keeping them safe.
The Adoption Process at PetSmart
Adopting a cat at PetSmart is simple but important to understand:
- Visit the adoption center – Check if your local store has cats (not all locations do)
- Meet the cats – Spend time interacting with available felines
- Complete an application – Most rescues require basic information
- Pay the adoption fee -typically $50 to $150 (much less than breeders)
- Take your cat home – Bring a carrier for safe transport
What’s Included in Adoption?
✔ Spay/neuter surgery (required)
✔ First vaccinations
✔ Microchipping (at some locations)
✔ Free vet check (often included)
✔ 30-day pet insurance trial
Why PetSmart Doesn’t Sell Cats
PetSmart made the ethical decision to only facilitate adoptions rather than sell cats because:
- Helps reduce shelter overcrowding
- Supports no-kill initiatives
- Avoids supporting kitten mills
- Gives adult cats equal chance at adoption
- Aligns with their mission of “saving pets’ lives”
Through PetSmart Charities, they’ve helped over 10 million pets find homes since 1994.
Smart Tips for New Cat Owners
If you adopt through PetSmart, remember the 3-3-3 Rule for helping your new cat adjust:
First 3 Days:
- Let them hide and explore one room
- Keep things quiet
- Don’t force interaction
First 3 Weeks:
- Establish routines
- Slowly introduce to other pets
- Begin light play sessions
First 3 Months:
- Full adjustment to home
- Comfortable with family
- Personality shines through
Other Cat Services at PetSmart
While they don’t sell cats, PetSmart offers many services for cat owners:
Cat Boarding (2025 Pricing Estimates)
- 25−25−45 per night
- Includes feeding, playtime, and cleaning
- Vaccination records required
Essential Supplies
- Litter boxes (15−15−50)
- Carriers (30−30−100)
- Toys and scratching posts
- Quality food and treats
Smart Pet Products
- GPS trackers for outdoor cats
- Automatic feeders
- Interactive toys
- Health monitoring wearables
Alternatives If No Cats Are Available
If your local PetSmart doesn’t currently have cats:
- Check back on weekends (more selection)
- Visit during National Adoption Week events
- Contact nearby animal shelters directly
- Consider Petco’s similar adoption program
Adoption Makes a Difference
Choosing to adopt from PetSmart means you’re
- Saving a life
- Supporting ethical pet ownership
- Getting a vet-checked companion
- Often saving money vs. breeders
Next time you visit PetSmart, stop by the adoption center – your perfect feline friend might be waiting! Remember that adult cats often make wonderful pets and are frequently overlooked in favor of kittens.
Ready to adopt? Bring your ID, a cat carrier, and an open heart. The staff can guide you through the simple process of giving a rescue cat their forever home.
Conclusion
While you can’t buy a cat at PetSmart, you can give a wonderful home to a cat in need through their adoption program. It’s a great way to find your new furry family member while supporting animal welfare. Next time you’re at PetSmart, take a look at their adoption center – your perfect cat might be waiting for you!
Remember, adopting a cat is a big responsibility, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. These cats from shelters often make especially loving and grateful pets. Why not visit your local PetSmart today and see if there’s a cat that steals your heart?