Cat Intake

We have expanded our cat intake beyond our rescue partners to also help individuals get their rescue cats into El Gato.

In order to safely introduce new cats with our resident cats, we have a vetting protocol that must be followed. Refer to the vetting protocol below.

We only accept healthy adoptable cats between the ages of 3 months to 8 years that are currently being fostered indoors. We do not accept feral cats.

If you are interested in applying for intake, please apply using the button below.

Note that we have a small team that balances many responsibilities, as such their will likely be delayed responses to your email. If you are in immediate need, please contact other shelters, as we most likely will not be able to work in your desired timeframe.

Once we have received vet records and confirmed that they are in compliance with our vetting protocol and the cat meets the age, health and behavioral requirements, your cat will be added to our intake waitlist.

Timing of intake is dependent on the timing of our adoptions and the length of the intake waitlist. This can take several months. During the wait, you’ll be required to foster the cat indoors or find a suitable foster.

We’ll contact you by email when space becomes available and will schedule a time for you to drop off the cat at El Gato.

We do not under any circumstances take unscheduled cat drop-offs.

If you have circumstances that prevent you from meeting the financial costs of vetting the cat. Please email us with the details of the circumstances and the cat’s needs at elgatointake@gmail.com

Refer to our list of recommended low-cost clinics here.

Required vetting for cats to be at EGC:

·       Combo test -make sure records show the test results (must be negative for FeLV)

·       Must have a negative fecal proving that cat is free of parasites Must include panel including testing for Giardia- make sure records show the test results

·       Cat must be microchipped 

·       Cat must be spayed or neutered

·       Cat must be up-to-date on FVRCP vaccinations - 

For initial vaccination: Kittens under four months need 3, cats four months and older just need 2

The boosters must be received within a 1 month window or the cycle needs to restart. If cat reaches 4 months before the 3rd vaccine - 2 boosters will suffice

·       Cat must be up-to-date on rabies vaccination.

·       Cat must be free of fleas and ringworm (provide date of last application of flea meds if applied)

·       Cat must be deemed a good behavioral fit to live along a community of other cats and to interact with the public.