Challenges Single People Face When Adopting Cats in Japan
Many people dream of saying, "I must have a cat!". After finally organizing their home environment and preparing all the necessary pet supplies, they eagerly go to adopt a cat. However, they are often turned away with the phrase "We do not accept adoptions from people living alone".
This situation is actually very common in Japan. The main reason is that society harbors two major stereotypes about single-person households.
Why Are Single People Often Denied Permission to Adopt Cats?
1. Concerns About Cats Being Too Lonely
Many adoption agencies believe that people living alone are often working professionals who spend long hours away from home during the weekdays. They worry that cats left alone for extended periods might feel too lonely and anxious.
There is also concern that if a cat accidentally ingests something harmful, gets injured, or suddenly falls ill, it could go unnoticed in time, leading to unfortunate outcomes.
However, even in dual-income households or homes with multiple occupants, cats may still spend long hours alone due to busy lifestyles.
2. Concerns About the Risk of Abuse in Cat Adoption
Some adoption agencies have encountered irresponsible adopters who initially show great enthusiasm. However, as time passes, one person silently bears the pressure of caring for the cat alone, which can lead to tragic cases of animal abuse triggered by emotional breakdowns.
Therefore, these agencies believe that if there are other family members at home to share the responsibilities, it seems to be a "safer" environment for the cat. However, it is important not to generalize based on a few extreme cases and assume that all individuals living alone will inevitably abuse their cats.
Clarifying Adoption Criteria for Cats
The adoption organizations are not intentionally making things difficult: "Does a single person not even have the qualification to own a cat?" Many adoption groups impose strict adoption conditions not to create obstacles, but because they want every cat to find genuine happiness.
In fact, there have been many heartbreaking cases in the past. Despite thorough identity verification and home visits, some adopters still abandoned or abused the animals afterward. These experiences forced organizations to raise the adoption bar.
This has also led to growing distrust between the "providers" and "single-person adopters."
Understanding and Trust: The Key to Breaking Down Barriers
Understanding and trust are the key to breaking down high walls. Many people living alone lead very happy lives with their cats, which shows that living alone is not the root of the problem.
To give more people a chance to welcome furry friends into their lives, both sides should face each other with a more open and trusting attitude. For example, adoption agencies could flexibly adjust adoption criteria, such as extending trial periods, organizing owner exchange events, and encouraging adopters to proactively share updates on their life, rather than supervising by "forced visitations."
Solo adopters could present comprehensive care plans, like applying for remote work, establishing support networks with friends and family, and actively participating in animal protection volunteer activities, demonstrating their sincerity and sense of responsibility through actions.
As long as both sides are willing to offer a little more understanding and trust, many more adorable cats will find happy homes.
