08/26/2026
🐾 Are You Looking for a Bargain—or a Bond?
When you’re looking to adopt, it’s important to understand what you’re really paying for.
Adoption fees aren’t simply a “price tag” on an animal. They help offset the costs of caring for that animal while they are in rescue—veterinary care, food, litter, supplies, and the time and resources it takes to prepare them for their forever home.
For a foster-based rescue like 12 Inch Tails, there’s another important piece of the equation: we take the time to actually get to know the cats. ❤️
We learn their personalities, likes and dislikes, habits, quirks, and any behavioral or health concerns we observe.
We don’t believe in simply putting a cat in a cage and waiting for someone to click “Adopt” on Petfinder.
Because if nobody takes the time to know the cat, how can we help you know whether they’re truly a good match?
Our fosters spend time socializing cats who need it. We work through behavioral challenges. We learn what makes each individual cat comfortable, happy, nervous, playful, affectionate, or independent.
Our goal is to do some of that work before you bring your new family member home.
Our 2025 transparency report shows that, on average, we spent approximately $300 per kitty during their time in rescue. That figure is based on approximately four weeks of care—and some cats need considerably longer. When they stay longer, the cost naturally goes up.
And yes, donations and wishlist support help tremendously. But when those supplies aren’t donated, the rescue still has to cover those expenses.
So the next time you’re looking at adoption fees, ask yourself:
🐾 Am I looking for a bargain?
❤️ Or am I looking for a bond?
At 12 Inch Tails, our adoption fees are set and non-negotiable. Our volunteers and supporters aren’t working hard to find someone a bargain.
We’re working hard to create the right bond between a rescue cat and the person who will love them for the rest of their life.
That’s what adoption should be about. A forever home—not the lowest price.
💬 Tell us in the comments: What personality trait would make you instantly fall in love with a rescue cat?
And if you’re considering adoption, take the time to learn about the animal you’re bringing home. The right match can make all the difference.
12inchtails.com/petfinder
