Barn Cat + Spirit Cat Information

Orange and white cat sitting on hay inside a barn

Queen City Cats often has barn/outdoor cats or spirit/shy cats looking for safe forever homes. If you are interested in a working cats for your barn, stable, outbuilding, store, or just looking to help one of our more needy feline friends, please reach out for more information by emailing info@queencitycatsvt.org or you can jump right in and fill out an adoption application. Make sure to indicate that you’re looking for a barn cat or spirit cat.

Barn Cat Adoption Requirements

To ensure the success, safety, and well-being of our barn cats, adopters must agree to the following requirements:

Housing & Care

  • Barn cats must have 24/7 access to a secure indoor shelter, such as a barn, outbuilding, garage, or other structure.

  • The indoor space must be heated during the winter months to provide protection from extreme weather.

  • Cats must be fed an appropriate cat food diet at least once daily and have access to fresh water.

  • Adopters must provide veterinary care when necessary.

  • Cats must be kept current on rabies vaccinations at a minimum.

Adoption in Pairs or Groups

  • Barn cats must be adopted in pairs or small groups whenever possible.

  • Cats are more likely to remain on the property and adjust successfully when they have familiar feline companions.

Acclimation Period

To help barn cats settle into their new environment and establish the property as their home:

  • Cats should be confined for at least one month upon arrival.

  • Confinement can be in a large dog crate or a secure room within the barn or outbuilding.

  • The confinement area must prevent escape; dirt floors are not suitable, as cats may dig out.

  • During this time, establish a consistent feeding routine so the cats learn where food, shelter, and safety are located.

Feeding & Routine Recommendations

  • Keep feeding stations in the same location whenever possible so cats learn where to return for food.

  • We recommend offering food in an area where the cats can be safely confined at night.

  • Maintain a consistent feeding schedule so the cats learn when to return each evening.

  • Use a consistent sound, such as a bell, whistle, or verbal call, each time food is offered. Cats can learn to associate this sound with feeding time and are more likely to respond and return to the building when called. 

  • Once the cats come in for their evening meal, close them into their shelter overnight to help reinforce their routine and increase their safety.

Following these guidelines greatly improves the likelihood that barn cats will remain on the property and thrive in their new home.

Please note: All of our adoptable barn cats will either be microchipped or ear-tipped and will be spayed/neutered, up to date on vaccinations, dewormed and treated with flea/tick preventative.