Start by filling out our Adoption Form. Once we’ve reviewed it, one of our adoption coordinators will reach out to learn more about what you’re looking for and help match you with the right cat. We can coordinate a virtual or in-person meet-and-greet, and if it feels like a good fit, we’ll guide you through the adoption process from there.

When you adopt from Tiny Cat Animal Rescue, you’re giving a second chance to a cat who had a tough start to life. Because we’re a small, hands-on rescue, we get to know each cat individually—their personalities, quirks, preferences, and needs—so we can help match you with a cat that fits your home and lifestyle, and we’ll be here to guide you through the acclimation process. We can tell you so much more about each of our cats than what we can fit on their profile pages! Often, we know their whole story—where they came from, how they ended up with us, and the journey they’ve taken to become ready for adoption. It’s extra special to adopt a cat when you know their backstory, and we love sharing those details so you can truly appreciate the life you’re welcoming into your home.

Of course! Although we do not have a central facility that hosues our cats, we work with foster families to set up times for potential adopters to swing by to meet poissible new family members. 

We like to do virtual meet-and-greets because video meet-and-greets are the best way to get an honest look at what life with your future cat will be like—you’ll talk with the cat’s foster parents and see how the cat behaves in a relaxed, familiar environment. We can also do in-person meet-and-greets upon request, subject to foster availability.

Our standard adoption fee is $200 per kitten and $175 per cat, which helps cover core veterinary care as well as food and supplies while the cat is in foster care. In special circumstances, we may adjust the fee.

It depends!

Tiny Cat Animal Rescue is a foster-based rescue, not a walk-in shelter, so every adoption is coordinated individually to make sure it’s the right fit for both you and the cat.

Our adoption process includes an Adoption Form, a phone or video conversation with our team, and an optional virtual or in-person meet and greet. Because we’re an all-volunteer organization, these steps don’t always happen on the same day.

That said, same-day adoptions are sometimes possible in two situations (as long as you can quickly provide any remaining information we need):

• Foster-to-Adopt: In this case, we'll still need you to fill out our online Adoption Form, sign our adoption agreement, and pay our adoption fee, but we will be able to process your adoption quickly because you’ve already been matched with a cat and completed your initial conversation with us.

• Pre-Approved Adopter: You’ve already submitted your Adoption Form and spoken with our team, so all that is left is confirming which cat(s) you want to adopt, signing our adoption agreement, and paying our adoption fee.

In both of these cases, we can usually finalize the adoption the same day you decide you’re ready to welcome your new cat home.

You don’t have to figure it out alone—we’re here to help! All of our available cats and kittens are listed above, and you’re welcome to apply for a specific cat that catches your eye or submit a general Adoption Form if you’re not sure who’s the right fit yet. Because we’re a small, foster-based rescue, we get to know each of our cats really well. Once we receive your adoption application, we’ll reach out to learn more about your home, lifestyle, and what you’re looking for in a feline companion. If you don’t have someone specific in mind, we’ll help match you with the right cat once one comes along. Whether you’re hoping for a playful kitten pair, a calm adult, or a pair of best friends, we’ll help guide you through the process and make sure it’s a great match for both you and the cat. You’ll also have a chance to meet them (virtually and/or in person) and talk with their foster parent to get a true sense of their personality.

In most cases, we prioritize adopting kittens out in pairs, and with good reason. Kittens are social learners, and having a littermate or similarly aged playmate helps them develop better social and behavioral skills. Pairs keep each other entertained, burn off energy together, and are far less likely to develop behavioral issues like biting, scratching, or anxiety. That said, we understand that every situation is different. In limited circumstances, we may consider adopting out a single kitten to a home that already has another playful, cat-friendly companion, or if the adopter has a highly flexible schedule and can provide the intensive engagement that a solo kitten needs. These situations are evaluated on a case-by-case basis with the kitten’s best interest in mind. 

Yes! We like to do virtual meet-and-greets because video meet-and-greets are the best way to get an honest look at what life with your future cat will be like—you’ll talk with the cat’s foster parents and see how the cat behaves in a relaxed, familiar environment. We can also do in-person meet-and-greets upon request, subject to foster availability.

That happens sometimes—but don’t worry! We get to know each of our cats really well and can help suggest others that may be a perfect fit for your home and lifestyle.

If you’re 18 or older and can provide a safe, indoor-only environment for a cat or kittens, you’re likely eligible! You don’t need prior experience owning a cat—just a willingness to learn and a little space in your home and heart.

Yes! We do ask that you confirm your lease allows cats and may request landlord approval as part of the adoption process.

Absolutely—as long as it’s a good match. Some of our cats love kids and other pets, while others do best in quieter homes. We’ll talk with you about your household and make sure we recommend cats that are a good fit for your situation.

That’s okay! Everyone starts somewhere, and we’re happy to help you learn. Please keep in mind that we only adopt kittens out to homes with other playful cats or in pairs.

We prioritize local adoptions (within DC, Maryland, and Virginia) to ensure a smooth transition and provide post-adoption support. If you’re outside our area but a great match for one of our cats, we may be able to work with you—just reach out and ask!

Yes! If adoption is on your mind, fostering can be a meaningful way to start. Not only do you get to know what it’s like to care for a cat, but fostering also lets you learn what kind of personality and temperament best fits your home and lifestyle—all while giving a homeless cat a safe and supportive place to land along the way. Submit our Foster Application to get started.

No. All cats adopted from Tiny Cat Animal Rescue must remain indoors only, both for their safety and to meet our adoption and veterinary requirements. Cats should not have access to balconies, open windows, or unsupervised outdoor enclosures unless fully secured and approved by TCAR.

Because we're such a small rescue, we're able to provide extra support after you've taken your new family member(s) home. We’re here to offer guidance on behavior, integration, or any questions you have as your cat settles in—and we always love updates and photos, so don't hesitate to stay in touch. Many of our cats once lived outdoors or in unstable situations, so they may need time, patience, and compassion to adjust. Every cat is different—some settle in quickly, while others need more time to feel safe and let their sweet personalities shine. We’re here to support you every step of the way, and we LOVE getting updates and photos! 

We’re here to support you after adoption, and we’ll do everything we can to help with the transition. If it’s ultimately not the right match, we require that all cats adopted from us be returned to Tiny Cat Animal Rescue so we can ensure they find a safe and appropriate next placement. Once returned, we can talk with you about why it didn't work out and see if we have any cats that would be a better fit for you!