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PAGE 70 www.OverTheHumpSaver.com July 2026

PAW’S

CORNER

By Sam Mazzotta

TEN GREAT REASONS TO ADOPT A SHELTER CAT

and Canada.
a good match increases those
D EAR PAW’S CORNER: • They’ll throw discounts and swag • The breed your partner wants
My partner wants to
odds.
at you. Annual exams with a par-
buy a purebred kitten
over the internet. I
and advice? Free tote bags? All
kinds of cats are accepted at
think it’s a terrible ticipating vet clinic? Counseling may be waiting at a shelter. All
idea, and we would do just fine with this and more could be waiting local shelters, for many different
a lovable cat from a local shelter. for you with a shelter cat. reasons.
How can I change their mind? • Their medical needs are already • You’ll get a socialized cat. Shel-
-- Janine L., Sherwood, Oregon taken care of. Spaying/neutering, ters evaluate rescues before
deworming, tests, vaccinations placing them for adoption.
DEAR JANINE: I’ll do my best! and microchipping are done • You’ll love the heck out of a shel-
• You’ll worry less about genetic before a cat is made available to ter cat. Whether you go home
conditions. Purebred cats are adopt, saving you $600 or more with a mixed-breed American
prone to inherited diseases. in retail vet fees. shorthair or a yowling Siamese,
• You’ll avoid scams. Internet-only • Health issues are more manage- your adopted cat will quickly
purchases of “purebred” cats able. Crossbred cats have fewer become an inseparable part of
are notoriously shady. Reputable genetic issues than purebred, your family.
breeders often require potential and most “lifestyle” conditions
owners to visit in person ... so like dental issues and skin condi- COMMENTS
they can evaluate you. tions can be treated affordably. Send your questions or pet tips
to ask@pawscorner.com.
• Shelter adoptions are affordable • Shelters will help match a cat
in comparison, averaging $150 to to you and your partner. They © 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.
$300 for cat adoptions in the U.S. want adoptions to succeed, and