Cat Adoption Agreement

Summary of Key Terms

Adopting a cat from HART means agreeing to a set of welfare‑focused conditions designed to protect the animal for life. The following is a plain‑language summary of what adopters commit to when signing our adoption contract.

Definitions

• Adopter: The individual(s) approved through HART’s vetting process to adopt and care for a HART cat.

• Rescue: Hay Animal Rescue Team (HART).

Core Terms of Adoption Primary Care & Ownership

• The cat is adopted solely for the Adopter’s immediate household.

• The cat must not be sold, transferred, or rehomed to any third party under any circumstances.

Return Policy

• If the cat is unsuitable for any reason, it must be returned to HART at the Adopter’s expense.

• Rehoming through friends, family, social media, or any other channel is strictly prohibited.

Welfare Commitment Adopters agree to provide:

• Adequate food, water, shelter, and veterinary care

• A safe, enriched environment that meets the cat’s emotional and behavioural needs

• Full financial responsibility for all ongoing costs

Indoor Settling Requirements To ensure safety and successful bonding:

• Adult cats (1 year+) must remain indoors for a minimum of 3 months.

• Kittens (under 1 year) must remain indoors until 12 months of age.

Home Visits

• HART may carry out reasonable home visits to ensure the cat’s wellbeing.

Temperament & Behaviour Disclaimer

• HART cannot guarantee a cat’s temperament.

• The Rescue accepts no liability for injury, damage, or loss caused by the cat after adoption.

Medical Disclaimer

• HART cannot guarantee the current or future health of any cat.

• While all cats are assessed and treated to the best of our ability, undiagnosed or future medical issues may arise.

• The Adopter is fully responsible for all veterinary care and costs after adoption.

  Microchip Responsibilities

• The Adopter must register the cat’s microchip within one week, as required by law.

• Failure to register may result in a fine of up to £500.

• Updated microchip details must be shared with HART.

• Microchip information must be kept accurate at all times.

Vaccinations

• Adopters must maintain up‑to‑date vaccinations throughout the cat’s life.

Termination Clause

• HART may reclaim the cat without notice if contract terms are breached or if the cat’s welfare is judged to be at risk.

Adoption Fees

• Adoption fees are agreed during the adoption process.

• Fees are non‑refundable, except where an adoption does not proceed.