When Is Adopt a Cat Month and Adopt a Dog Month?
June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month and October is Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month, both promoted by the ASPCA. June falls at the height of kitten season, when shelters are flooded with kittens, so many shelters run reduced-fee cat adoptions. In October, shelters focus on finding homes for dogs. Watch local shelters for events in both months.
Awareness months are a good time to adopt: shelters promote pets heavily, run events and often lower fees.
Pet adoption months
| Month | Observance | Why then |
|---|---|---|
| June | Adopt a Shelter Cat Month (ASPCA) | Height of "kitten season," when shelters fill with kittens |
| October | Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month (ASPCA) | National focus on shelter dogs |
Adopt a Shelter Cat Month (June)
The ASPCA explains that June is the peak of feline breeding season, known as kitten season, when shelters across the country are flooded with kittens. Its 2026 campaign suggests five ways to help: adopt, foster (summer kitten foster needs are especially high), donate supplies or funds, volunteer, and share adoptable pets on social media.
Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month (October)
The ASPCA promotes October as Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog Month, encouraging people to choose shelter dogs. About 2.8 million dogs entered US shelters and rescues in 2025, so there's no shortage of dogs to choose from.
Other big adoption events
- BISSELL Pet Foundation's Empty the Shelters, the largest funded adoption event in the US, runs reduced-fee adoptions at participating shelters (for example, $50 dogs and cats at a Chicago shelter in May 2026).
- Holiday promotions at many local shelters.
- Pet store adoption weekends with local rescue partners.
Tips for adopting during an event
- Pre-apply online if the shelter allows it.
- Arrive early; popular pets go fast.
- Ask what's included in the reduced fee (vaccines, spay/neuter, microchip).
- Don't rush: make sure the pet fits your household.
See free and reduced-fee adoption events and find animal shelters near you.
Sources
Find animal shelters & rescues near you
Thinking about adopting a dog or cat, or need to surrender or report a lost pet? Compare local animal shelters and rescue groups by Google rating, reviews and opening hours below.
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This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary, legal or financial advice. Prices vary by city and clinic; always ask your veterinarian or provider about your own pet.
Related questions
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