Before adopting a kitten, it’s important to understand the commitment that comes with them. While cats are generally solitary, independent animals, they can live for up to 20 years (in rare cases, even longer than this) and require attention every day. It’s a good idea to research them beforehand too, so you can gain a better understanding of what your cat is trying to communicate to you or how it is feeling. Furthermore, it’s also a good idea to adopt a rescued cat, rather than simply purchasing one from a pet shop. This helps to prevent pet overpopulation, and also helps animal shelters from becoming overcrowded. This being said, cats make brilliant pets. They don’t need a lot of maintenance, clear up any pests around the house and, if raised with care, are very friendly and warm animals around humans. They’ve been human companions since around 7500BC and they’ve been meowing at us for extra food ever since. If you’d like to welcome a four-legged feline friend into your family, here’s where you can adopt one in Derbyshire. The Ark Address: Wyaston Road, Ashbourne, DE6 1NB. Phone number: 01335 300494 Operated by Ashbourne Animal Welfare, The Ark has found homes for over 9,000 cats, dogs and other animals since its inception in 1988. They provide excellent care for the animals under their watch and are more than willing to help you make a decision. They understand it’s important that you get the right cat for you. Their open days are currently suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19, but you can still take a look at their cats on their website. Don’t let this put you off, however – you can still adopt a cat or dog from The Ark. Happy Tails Dog and Cat Rehoming Address: Old Whittington, Chesterfield, S41 9EA Email: pets@happytailsrehoming.co.uk Based in Chesterfield, Happy Tails Dog and Cat Rehoming provide top-class care for the animals they look after. They don't just look after cats and dogs, they also actively search for animals that are in need of rescue and take them under their wing. Happy Tails prefer to be contacted on Facebook when inquiring into their cats or dogs – however, if you do not have Facebook account, you can send them an Email instead and they’ll be happy to help you find the right cat. Woodland Nook Cat Rescue Address: 27 Delves Bank Road, Swanwick, Alfreton, DE55 1HA. Phone number: 07941806536 The team at Woodland Nook Cat Rescue go above and beyond for the cats in their care. They’re not kept in a cage – they more or less have their own house, including an outside play area and an enormous “kitty castle”. There’s one challenge involved with adopting a cat from Woodland Nook – giving them a better life than they already have! All the cat adoption agencies mentioned in this article would also gladly take donations, especially after a difficult period caused by COVID-19. No doubt the cats would be very grateful for your generosity (even if they may not show it).