Barn Cat Program

Outdoor Cats for Your Barn, Shop or Property 

Our Barn Cat Program is designed to connect rough and tumble, sassy cats with individuals and families who can offer safe, outdoor homes. These cats are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, micro-chipped, and adopted to those who appreciate cats who work as critter patrol and can provide a safe, appropriate environment such as a barn, stable, garage, or business. 

Barn Cat laying in hay

Benefits of a Barn Cat

Adopting a barn cat is a winning situation for everyone. By welcoming a barn cat to your property, you are supporting the safest way to control the rodent population in your barn and around your home or business. There are no poisons for children and pets to get into and no need to set rodent traps. Barn cats use their natural instincts to check rodent populations, deter pests from moving in, and you’ll have the satisfaction of giving them a much needed home.

Barn Cat Adoptions are Free and Include:

What Does My Barn Cat Need from Me?

  • Short term shelter: a safe, confined space for acclimating the cat (PDF) to your property such as an enclosed area, stall, or large dog crate (with clean litter box, food, and water) for 3-6 weeks 
  • Long term shelter: a warm, secure, dry building or space for shelter from the elements and predators
  • Daily fresh food and potable water
  • Monitoring and providing for the safety and well-being of the cat(s)
  • Vaccinations every three years (by trapping, if necessary) and provide licensed veterinary care in the event of injury or illness

What’s the Process?

Take a look at our available barn cats online then come by the shelter to get started. You be able to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable customer service staff to learn all about setting your barn cat up!

Adoption Requirements:

  1. A complete adoption application (PDF)
  2. A home visit may be required to verify the outdoor living conditions are appropriate under the law, including water, food, shelter, etc.
  3. A consultation with a staff member regarding the procedure for introducing your new barn cat to the new environment (PDF) .
  4. Rabies vaccinations for any other owned dog or cat residing at the property (including those living solely indoors).
  5. According to Virginia law, the cat must have access to adequate shelter, be provided with fresh food and water daily, and receive regular veterinary care.