Question 1

How do I adopt a cat?

Accepted Answer

When a cat is ready to find their forever home, they'll be listed on our Available for Adoption page.

If you're interested in adopting, simply complete the adoption application form on the cat's profile.
Once we've reviewed the applications, we'll contact the applicants who are the best match for that particular cat.

As a volunteer-run rescue, we receive a large number of applications and unfortunately aren't able to reply individually to every unsuccessful applicant.

Question 2

Why aren't there any cats available?

Accepted Answer

Sphynx cats don't often need rescuing, which is actually wonderful news!

If there aren't any cats listed on our website, it simply means we don't currently have any ready for adoption. Some cats may still be receiving veterinary treatment, recovering in foster care or undergoing behavioural assessment before they're ready to find their forever home.

Question 3

Can I go on a waiting list?

Accepted Answer

We don't keep a waiting list.

Every cat has different needs, so we assess applications based on the individual cat rather than the order they're received.
 
The best way to adopt is to keep an eye on our website and social media for new arrivals.

Question 4

Do you ever have kittens available?

Accepted Answer

Although we occasionally have kittens come into our care, it is incredibly rare.

Most of the cats we rescue are adults, and many need medical treatment or rehabilitation before they're ready for adoption.

If your heart is set on a kitten, we may not be the right fit. If you're open to giving an adult sphynx a loving home, we'd love to hear from you.

Question 5

Do you adopt interstate?

Accepted Answer

Yes.

Although we're based in Melbourne, we regularly adopt cats to approved homes throughout Australia.

Transport can usually be arranged where appropriate, however transport costs are generally the responsibility of the adopter.

Question 6

Can I meet the cats before applying?

Accepted Answer

Our cats live in foster homes rather than a shelter, so we don't offer general meet-and-greets.

Meetings are usually arranged with shortlisted applicants once we've determined they're a suitable match for the cat.

We occasionally attend community events where people can meet some of our rescue cats, and we'll always announce these on our social media.

Question 7

How do you choose who adopts each cat?

Accepted Answer

Our goal is to find the best possible home for each individual cat.

We consider factors such as experience, lifestyle, existing pets, children, home environment and the cat's specific medical or behavioural needs.

The first application isn't necessarily the successful one. We're looking for the best match for both the cat and the adopter.

Question 8

How much does it cost to adopt?

Accepted Answer

Our standard adoption fee ranges from $800 to $1,500, depending on the individual cat and their circumstances.

Every cat receives comprehensive veterinary care before adoption, and the fee helps us continue rescuing and caring for sphynx cats in need.

Question 9

Why are your adoption fees so high?

Accepted Answer

The average sphynx that comes into our care costs us around $3,000 before they're ready for adoption. Many require specialist veterinary treatment, surgery, dental work, diagnostic testing, medications and ongoing rehabilitation.

Before adoption, our cats are desexed (where age appropriate), microchipped, vaccinated and receive a comprehensive veterinary health check.

For comparison, a sphynx kitten from a reputable breeder typically costs between $2,500 and $5,000 AUD, before factoring in the ongoing costs of ownership.

While adopting through a rescue isn't about finding a "cheaper" sphynx, it does mean you're giving a cat in need a second chance while helping us rescue the next one.

Sphynx Rescue Australia is entirely volunteer-run, and every dollar raised goes directly back into the care of the cats we rescue.

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Frequently asked questions