Taking a cat from an animal welfare organisation can be incredibly rewarding, but it's important to first weigh up the pros and cons.

No matter how irresistible a kitten can be, the thought of bringing home a bundle of high-energy mayhem on four legs isn't for everyone. Many mature cats are abandoned or put up for re-homing every year, and adopting an adult cat from a reputable feline charity or shelter can be hugely rewarding – and gives a deserving pet a second chance of becoming part of a loving household.

• Adult cats will tend to be calmer and more relaxed, with a better-established routine and a laidback personality. They should have burnt through all that excess kitten energy and be ready to settle down, having learnt a few house rules – like knowing what the litter tray is for!
• A reputable re-homing charity will ensure that your cat has had a thorough medical check, is desexed, vaccinated, wormed, microchipped and has received any treatment necessary before re-homing.
• In many cases, the cat's history will be known, so the shelter can help you select a pet that will suit your home and lifestyle. The centre may also know if the cat is good with children, other cats, or dogs. In general, welfare organisations will be as anxious as you are to make the right match, and will never try to offload a problem animal.
• Leading charities can offer valuable support and advice throughout your cat's life.
• With so many cats available for re-homing, you’re almost certain to find a pet that’s just right for you, from purebred to moggie.
• And of course, you’ll have the enormous satisfaction of knowing that you’ve been responsible for giving your cat a second chance.

Older cats re-homed through a reputable organisation make wonderful pets, but there are a few points to remember:

• Be honest and comprehensive when describing your lifestyle and living arrangements. A cat that is used to the outdoor life, for instance, will struggle to acclimatise as an indoor pet.
• Older cats can be set in their ways. It may take time for an adult to settle in and mould you to their way of life.
• Sometimes a cat's full history may not be known, especially if abandoned. Make sure your cat has a complete medical test before re-homing, and remember that if a cat has been badly treated, he or she may carry some emotional baggage, and will need patience to re-establish trust.
• If you're already a cat owner, it's worth noting that introducing a new adult cat may cause more friction than a youngster.
• If you're re-homing a pedigree from a cattery or breeder, remember that they have probably been used for breeding or showing and may have developed particular behaviour patterns.

There are innumerable re-homing organisations New Zealand-wide, from national charities to local shelters and catteries. You'll find plenty of options online or in your telephone directory.

To help you make your choice, arrange to visit the centre, check out their facilities and the general condition of the animals under care. You will also be expected to provide details about your home and lifestyle, and may even be asked to bring in existing pets as proof of responsible pet ownership.

For further information please contact the SPCA.

And don't forget that if your mind is set on a kitten, it's often possible to find kittens for re-homing, too, especially during the kittening seasons.