American Humane Association declares June 'Adopt a Cat' month ...

For most people, the arrival of June signifies the onset of summer, but in the pet world it means the kick-off to kitten season.

Thousands of tiny kittens will join millions of adult cats housed in animal shelters around the country.

To make space for these fledgling felines, the American Humane Association hopes to encourage people to adopt a cat (or more) during the month of June. The organization offers a ?top 10 checklist? for adopting a cat this month.

• Why stop at one? Consider taking home two instead; they can provide companionship for each other when you?re away.
• Find a veterinarian before adopting, and schedule an appointment within a few days of taking home your new friend.
• Find a cat with a personality that works well with yours.
• Make sure everyone in your home is prepared to have a cat around.
• Think about and budget for the long- and short-term costs of having a cat.
• Stock up on cat-friendly toys and supplies.
• Make sure your house is ?cat-proofed.?
• Introduce your new pet gradually to family and friends.
• Don?t forget to include your pet into your family?s emergency plan.
• Don?t give a cat as a gift unless the recipient is actively involved in the adoption process.

Need another reason to adopt a cat?

Multnomah County Animal Services is extending its May special through June for kitten season. You can adopt a pet for the price of a license fee: $25 for dogs and $12 for cats throughout the month. MCAS: 1700 W. Columbia River Highway, Troutdale;?503-988-7387.

And Cat Adoption Team is promoting a ?Bubba Cat? special, on Saturday, June 2. Name your own adoption fee tomorrow only for "National Bubba?Day" for Bubba cats, age 12 months and older. CAT: 14175 SW Galbreath Drive, Sherwood; 503-925-8903.

--Monique Balas

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