How to Rehome or Adopt a Cat in Taiwan

To rehome a cat in Taiwan, be clear about its health tests, personality and home safety needs, then look for an adopter who can secure the windows and give it time to settle in. To adopt a cat, try online adoption platforms, independent fosters and animal welfare groups, or public animal shelters.

This article was written by the Ashera Pet team. Ashera Pet is our own platform, so please keep that in mind as you read.

This article covers what is specific to cats. For the full steps, including contracts and pet registration, see how to rehome a pet responsibly.

What to include in a cat listing

If a test hasn't been done, write "not tested". If you don't know something, say so. Besides a front-facing photo, include shots of the cat resting and playing so people can picture life with it.

How to check window safety

Falls are a common accident for cats, so many rehomers make window and door safety a condition. You can:

• Ask how the windows, balcony and front door are set up now, and how the adopter plans to secure them
• Remind them that an ordinary screen may not stop a cat from pushing through or tearing it
• Ask for photos if needed, or arrange a home visit if both sides agree
• Agree that safety measures will be in place before the cat arrives

Kittens and adult cats

• Kittens: They are generally rehomed once they can eat on their own and are in stable health. If vaccines or spay or neuter surgery are still needed, agree on who will handle them and how costs will work, and put it in the contract.
• Adult cats: Their personality is usually clearer, so describe what they like and fear to help people judge the fit.
• Shy cats: Describe what you actually see, such as whether the cat hides from strangers or will come close to people. Adjustment time varies, so it's fine to say you aren't sure.

How to screen adopters

Besides household agreement, you can ask:

• Do you have other cats? How will you separate and introduce them?
• How long will the cat be alone each day? Who will care for it when you are away?
• What will you do if the cat hides, urinates outside the box or scratches furniture?

Be careful if someone is in a hurry, shows no interest in the cat's health, refuses a contract or any follow-up contact, or wants several cats but can't explain how they would care for them.

Settling in at the new home

Cats are sensitive to change. For the handover:

• Use a sturdy carrier instead of carrying the cat by hand
• Bring its usual food, litter and a bed that smells familiar
• Start with a small, quiet space and somewhere to hide
• Don't rush to hold it or introduce it to other pets
• If it keeps refusing food and water, contact a vet promptly

For supplies and the first 7 days, see our first-time cat adoption checklist.

Where to find a cat to adopt

• Online adoption platforms: You can see photos and details first. On Ashera Pet, you can browse cats by city and district and message rehomers in the app. Rehomers may be individuals, fosters or groups, and their processes vary
• Independent fosters and animal welfare groups: They often know a cat's daily habits well, and conditions vary
• Public animal shelters: The process is government-run, and opening hours and conditions vary by city or county

To compare more options, see best pet adoption platforms in Taiwan. Whichever you choose, pay only after meeting the cat and sign a written adoption contract. Be cautious if the fee is far higher than actual medical costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge a fee to rehome a cat?

Don't charge more than your actual costs. If the cat has already been spayed, neutered, vaccinated or microchipped, explain this upfront, provide receipts and put it in the contract so both sides can discuss sharing the cost. On Ashera Pet, fee disputes can be reported, and the platform will review them under its community guidelines.

Are all cat adoptions free?

Not always. Some public shelters and individuals don't charge a fee, but rules vary, and independent rehomers may discuss sharing actual medical costs. Be cautious if someone offers a free cat adoption but asks you to pay shipping or a deposit first. Either way, keeping a cat means long-term costs for food, litter, vaccines and vet care.

How old should a kitten be before it is rehomed?

There is no single age for every kitten. Kittens are generally rehomed once they can eat on their own and are in stable health. Please ask a vet to assess the individual kitten.

Can a cat with FIV or FeLV be rehomed?

You can look for a suitable home, but you must share the test results honestly. Ask the adopter to check with a vet about care and whether the cat can live with other cats.

Can I adopt another cat if I already have one?

Yes, but first consider your space and your current cat. Keep the new cat separate at first, have a vet confirm its health, then introduce them gradually.

Can I list a cat for adoption on Ashera Pet?

Yes, listing is free, but you must be currently caring for the cat. Selling animals under the guise of adoption is prohibited. The app is listed only on the Taiwan App Store and Google Play.

References

• Taiwan pet registration system
• Animal Protection Information Network, Ministry of Agriculture
• Ashera Pet community guidelines