Guidance
Need to Rehome a Cat?
We want to point people toward the safest, most realistic next step for each cat.
If you adopted the cat from C.A.T.S.
Please contact us. We always welcome back cats originally adopted through C.A.T.S. if the placement is not working out.
Email SDcatadoption@yahoo.comFor cats not adopted from C.A.T.S.
C.A.T.S. does not accept owner-surrendered pets. Our rescue work focuses on cats coming directly from the street or from city and county shelters. If you need to place a cat, the organizations below may be able to help depending on space and the cat's needs.
What to try first
- •If the cat was adopted from C.A.T.S., contact us first. We welcome our own cats back when an adoption does not work out.
- •Before rehoming, try reaching out to your landlord, veterinarian, family, or local rescue contacts. Many situations can be solved with a little support.
- •Have the cat spayed or neutered before rehoming whenever possible. That helps protect the cat and makes placement easier.
- •Senior cats and special-needs cats usually need extra patience and planning. A targeted rescue may be a better fit than a general listing.
Private shelters and rescues
Public shelters in San Diego County
San Diego County Department of Animal Services, North Shelter
www.sddac.com760-438-2312
San Diego County Department of Animal Services, Central Shelter
www.sddac.com619-236-4250
San Diego County Department of Animal Services, South Shelter
www.sddac.com619-685-6309
City of El Cajon Animal Shelter
www.elcajon.gov/government/departments/police/services/animal-shelter619-441-1580
City of Chula Vista Animal Care Facility
www.chulavistaca.gov/departments/animal-services619-691-5123
Camp Pendleton Animal Shelter
760-725-8120