Cats for Adoption in Gilchrist County, FL: 30 Cats Looking for a Home

35 cats and kittens are waiting for homes at 1 rescue or shelter within 50 miles of the middle of Gilchrist County. Here are 30 of the newest arrivals, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Of the cats up for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of Gilchrist County, 23 young cats, 9 adults and 3 seniors. Most are domestic shorthairs and other mixed breeds, but you'll also find Siamese cats.

Not in Gilchrist County? Find cats near your zip code.

1. Bamboo

Adult (1 year 6 months) · Female · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Bamboo, an adult female Tabby cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm Bamboo!

Not too long ago, I was living around a trailer park, doing my best to get by on my own. Luckily, some kind people noticed how friendly I was and decided I deserved a chance at a better life. They were right! I'm a meet-and-greet kind of girl who doesn't believe in being a stranger for long. I happily approach new people and am always interested in making new friends. When you first pick me up, I might be a little tense while I figure out what's going on, but once I realize I'm safe, I relax and settle right in.

2. Lui Pierre

Adult (6 years) · Male · Domestic Long Hair / Mixed (long coat)

Lui Pierre, an adult male cat up for adoption

Hi, I’m Lui Pierre, and I’m ready to be your new best friend. My world changed when my owner passed away and I came to Sheltering Hands, but through it all I’ve held onto my sweet, people-loving personality.

I’m a handsome tuxedo gentleman with especially long white whiskers that seem to have a personality of their own. One thing you should know about me is that I’m definitely a meet-and-greet kind of guy. I’m not the shy type. When someone new walks by, I’m ready to say hello and make a great first impression.

3. Bowzer

Adult (5 years 5 months) · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Bowzer, an adult male cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm Bowzer, and I came to the shelter with my good friend Meowzers. Everything has been a little overwhelming, especially since I'm the kind of guy who takes my time deciding who I can trust. Once you've earned my trust, my real personality shines through. I'm affectionate, friendly, and surprisingly outgoing. I enjoy spending time with my favorite people and am always happy to be included in whatever you're doing.

4. Artichoke

Senior (8 years) · Female · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Artichoke, a senior female Tabby cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm Artichoke,

Losing my person and everything familiar was a lot for a senior girl like me. There was no plan for me or my two kitty friends so a relative was regularly coming in to feed us for a while. Because I would hide, they thought I wasn't very affectionate.

Once the folks at the shelter got to know me, they discovered the real me. I'm actually one of the sweetest cats you'll ever meet! I love being petted, loved on, and fussed over. The more attention I get, the happier I am. I'll gladly settle in beside you and soak up every bit of affection you have to offer.

5. Zucchini

Adult (2 years) · Female · Siamese / Mixed (short coat)

Zucchini, an adult female Siamese cat up for adoption

Hi, I’m Zucchini!

Life didn’t start out easy for me. I was found in a bin with my five tiny babies, and from that moment on, my job was to keep them safe, warm, and loved. I’m proud to say I did my best, and now all five of my kittens have found wonderful homes of their own!

With my mom duties complete, it’s finally my turn to be spoiled. I absolutely love being the center of attention and will happily soak up every bit of affection you have to offer. Talk to me, pet me, play with me, tell me about your day. I’m all ears! I’m an outgoing, friendly girl who genuinely enjoys being around people.

6. Mouse

Young (3 months 9 days) · Male · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Mouse, a young male Tabby cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm Mouse, and I have quite the story to tell!

When I was little, I spent my first couple of months as an only kitten. That meant I got lots of practice being the perfect people-cat. I loved snuggling in laps, soaking up attention, and purring right into your ear while you held me. Honestly, I thought life was all about cuddles and being adored.

7. Brenda Lee

Adult (1 year 6 months) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Brenda Lee, an adult female cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm Brenda Lee, and if you're looking for a cat who believes there is no such thing as too much love, then I'm your girl! My favorite thing in the world is spending time with my people. I'll happily march right up to you to demand kisses, pets, and all the attention you can spare. Once you start loving on me, my loud, happy purr will let you know just how much I appreciate it.

I also enjoy a little nature watching from the comfort and safety of an enclosed lanai. I can spend hours keeping an eye on birds and squirrels, and I never miss an opportunity to track an anole lizard as it scurries by. It's my own version of kitty television!

8. Squish Squash

Adult (5 years 1 month) · Female · Tuxedo / Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Squish Squash, an adult female Tuxedo cat up for adoption

Hi there, I'm Squish Squash!

If you're looking for a professional lap warmer, I think I might be exactly who you need. I'm an incredibly sweet and friendly girl who absolutely adores attention. The moment you start petting me, I'll lean right into your hand and soak up every bit of love you're willing to give.

I'm still getting used to life at the shelter, and everything here is new to me. I like curling up in my cubbie and watching all the activity. Whether you're offering gentle pets, kind words I'm ready and willing to accept them all. I have so much love to give, and I don't believe in keeping it to myself.

9. Splish Splash

Young (6 months) · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Splish Splash, a young male cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm Splish Splash! I'm a handsome black cat with a big personality and an even bigger heart. I love making new friends and get along wonderfully with both people and other cats. Whether I'm meeting someone for the first time or hanging out with my feline buddies, my friendly and easygoing nature always shines through.

When I'm not busy being charming, you can usually find me playing with my favorite toys, watching the world go by from a sunny window, or soaking up lots of love and attention from my humans. I absolutely adore affection and am happiest when I'm getting pets, cuddles, and spending time with my family.

10. Sieanna

Adult (3 years 1 month) · Female · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Sieanna, an adult female Tabby cat up for adoption

Hi, I’m Sienna.

Life hasn’t always been easy for me. I came from a home with far too many cats, and with so many furry faces around, I often got overlooked. Because of that, all this one-on-one attention is still pretty new to me. I want to love it, and every day I’m learning that being noticed can be a wonderful thing. My very favorite thing is having my chin and cheeks gently stroked. When those soft pets start, you can almost see me relax and lean into them. It’s my special way of saying, “Yes, please, more of that!”

11. Forte

Senior (10 years 1 month) · Male · Domestic Long Hair / Mixed (long coat)

Forte, a senior male cat up for adoption

Hello, I'm Forte.

For the first 10 years of my life, I had a home and a person who loved me. When my owner became very sick, there was no plan for what would happen to me, and suddenly I found myself at a shelter. As you can imagine, that was a big change for a guy like me, and sometimes I still feel a little overwhelmed by it all.

12. Small Fry

Young (3 months 4 days) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Small Fry, a young female cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm Small Fry!

I may be little, but I've got a big heart and an even bigger personality. I was found all alone, trying to fend for myself, but luckily the wonderful people at Sheltering Hands rescued me and helped me find a foster home. Once I arrived, I met three other kittens my age and fit right in from day one!

13. Hamburglar

Young (3 months 23 days) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Hamburglar, a young female cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm Hamburglar!

I may be a little shy when we first meet, but give me a little time and I'll show you what a sweetheart I am. Once I feel safe and comfortable, I'm all about affection. I'll rub my tiny body against you, lean into your side, and happily soak up every bit of attention you're willing to give.

14. Melody

Young (5 months 5 days) · Female · Tortoiseshell / Mixed (short coat)

Melody, a young female Tortoiseshell cat up for adoption

I’m Melody, and I’ve been singing my little heart-song ever since the day someone finally scooped me up from that big, lonely industrial park. I was just a tiny kitten trying to make sense of a world full of loud trucks and empty corners, doing my best to stay brave even when I felt very small.

Everything changed when a kind human noticed me. Now I get to be the sweet, playful girl I always wanted to be. I love batting at toys, chasing shadows, and curling right into your arms like it’s the safest place on earth. Being held is my favorite—maybe because I’m still making up for all those quiet, solitary days when no one was there to cuddle me.

15. Paloma

Young (6 months) · Female · Tortoiseshell / Mixed (short coat)

Paloma, a young female Tortoiseshell cat up for adoption

My name is Paloma, I’ve been trying my very best to understand this whole “shelter life” thing. It hasn’t been easy for me — all the new sounds, new faces, and new routines can feel a little overwhelming. But every day, I’m starting to show more of who I really am: an affectionate, thoughtful kitty who wants to trust and be loved.

One of the things that helps me feel brave is playtime. I love batting toy balls and little mice around, especially when my brother Pablo joins in. He makes everything feel safer, and we have a great time chasing toys together.

16. Pablo

Young (6 months) · Male · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Pablo, a young male Tabby cat up for adoption

My name is Pablo, and I’m the kind of cat who needs a little time and a little understanding before I feel safe. New places, new people, new routines — they can be overwhelming for me, and the shelter has definitely been a challenge.

The quickest way to my heart is play. If you pull a string or wiggle a toy, I can’t help myself — I have to go after it. I love chasing, pouncing, and showing off my moves. I also adore playing with my sister; she helps me feel brave, and I’d love a home where I can have another friendly cat buddy to keep me company.

17. The Baconator

Young (3 months 25 days) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

The Baconator, a young female cat up for adoption

Hi, I'm The Baconator. My coloring is called “black van” because I have a mostly white cost with a splash of black on my head and tail. I am a friendly, independent girl who loves chasing toys, and other kitty games. I can be perceived as a bit "snotty". I look like I want to be petted but when you put your hand out, I just move away. Other times I really lean into it. A girl has to maintain some intrigue, after all.

If you're looking for a beautiful kitten with a playful spirit, a dash of sass, and a talent for making you laugh, then I might just be the Baconator you've been waiting for.

Estimated Birthday: 7/2/26

18. Laezel

Young (3 months 6 days) · Female · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Laezel, a young female Tabby cat up for adoption

Hi, I’m Laezel, and if there’s a closed door or cabinet in this house, I absolutely need to know what’s behind it. I’m a curious explorer with a very important mission: investigating every nook, cranny, shelf, and secret hiding spot I can find. If I accidentally get myself somewhere I don’t want to be, don’t worry, I have an excellent alarm system. You’ll definitely hear me loudly requesting an exit!

19. Gail

Young (3 months 6 days) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Gail, a young female cat up for adoption

Hi, I’m Gail, and if you look into my big, bright eyes, I’ll be looking right back at you. I’m a cuddly little sweetheart who absolutely loves laps, snuggles, and being close to my people. When I’m not curled up soaking up affection, I’m busy keeping up with my kitty friends and proving that I can hold my own in any wrestling match that comes my way.

I’m a bit of a spitfire with a big personality packed into a tiny package. I’m confident, playful, and not the least bit interested in backing down from a challenge. Whether it’s chasing toys, tumbling with friends, or exploring the world around me, I throw my whole heart into everything I do.

20. Shadowheart

Young (3 months 6 days) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Shadowheart, a young female cat up for adoption

Hi there! I'm Shadowheart, and if you're looking for a cat who believes laps were invented exclusively for her, you've come to the right place. Sure, I enjoy chasing toy mice, wrestling with my siblings, and showing off my playful side, but nothing compares to spending time with my favorite human.

21. Magnus

Young (5 months 30 days) · Male · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Magnus, a young male Tabby cat up for adoption

Hi… I’m Magnus. I’m not the kind of cat who bursts into a room or demands attention. I was found outside all alone, and I learned early on that the world can be a lot. So I take my time. I watch. I think. I decide when I’m ready. That’s just how I’m built.

I can be playful — there are moments when something sparks in me and I’ll chase a toy or bat at a string with surprising enthusiasm. Other times I’m stoic and still, tucked away in a safe spot where I can observe everything without being in the middle of it. I hide a lot, but not because I don’t care… I just need to feel secure before I show you my softer side.

22. Tiggy

Adult (4 years 4 months) · Female · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Tiggy, an adult female Tabby cat up for adoption

I’m Tiggy, a girl with a pink little nose that tells the story of where I came from. I was surviving outside in a colony when kind people noticed me — especially the big scab on my nose. They reached out, discovered I was actually a total sweetheart, and took me to the vet. Turns out that injury wasn’t from a fight at all, but from a mosquito allergy. My nose has healed into a soft pink now, and it may stay that way forever. I think it makes me look pretty adorable.

23. Leda

Young (5 months 12 days) · Female · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Leda, a young female Tabby cat up for adoption

I’m Leda, the girl who likes to hang back at first—just a few steps behind the action, watching everything like I’m waiting for my official invitation to join the fun. I’m not shy, exactly… I just like to make sure the vibe is right before I jump in. But once you give me that little “come on in” moment, I’m suddenly the life of the party.

24. Castor

Young (5 months 16 days) · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Castor, a young male cat up for adoption

I’m Castor, the white‑and‑black boy with the thoughtful eyes and the soft heart. I like to take a moment to size things up when I meet someone new—just a little pause to be sure everything feels right. But once I decide you’re safe (and honestly, that doesn’t take long), I’m all in. I enjoy people, I enjoy other cats, and I enjoy being part of whatever gentle chaos is happening around me.

25. Jace

Young (5 months 18 days) · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Hi, I'm Jace! If I were on a football team, I'd definitely be the linebacker. I'm built for action, and I never back down from a challenge. Thinking things through before I leap? Not really my style. I prefer to launch myself into whatever is happening and figure it out along the way!

I'm a funny guy with a big personality and an even bigger appetite. If it's food, I want it. If it's not food, I'll probably try to eat it anyway just to be sure. Life is too short to be picky.

26. Wilma

Senior (8 years 3 months) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Wilma, a senior female cat up for adoption

Hi, I’m Wilma — formerly known as Walter, thank you very much. I showed up one day outside a nice person’s house and decided, “Yep, this is my place now.” I’m a big girl with an even bigger personality, and I made quite an entrance. At first they thought I was a handsome fella, but once they got to know me, they realized I’m a fabulous lady with a voice that carries.

27. Cupcake

Young (6 months) · Female · Tabby / Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Cupcake, a young female Tabby cat up for adoption

Hi, I’m Cupcake , the resident cuddle MONSTER and professional productivity wrecker. If you sit down, that’s it — game over. I will be in your lap, on your chest, draped across your shoulder, or otherwise attached to you like a warm, purring accessory. No exceptions, no negotiations. I take my snuggling duties very seriously.

I’m super sweet and my purr motor runs nonstop, but don’t let that fool you — I’ve got a playful streak too. If it can be chased, swatted, or chomped, I’m on it. I’m curious about everything happening around me and I love exploring every corner of my new world.

28. Chickadee

Young (6 months) · Female · Tuxedo / Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Chickadee, a young female Tuxedo cat up for adoption

I’m Chickadee, your classic tuxedo sweetheart with a whole lot of purr packed into a tiny kitten body. I play, I explore, I chase whatever wiggles—but the moment you sit down, I’m already climbing into your lap or curling up on your chest like it’s my personal luxury suite. That’s my favorite place in the world, and once I’m settled, the purring starts and it doesn’t stop. I’m a little motorboat of happiness, content to snooze, snuggle, and soak up every bit of affection you’re willing to give. Playtime is fun, but being close to you is my true joy.

Estimated Birthday: 3/30/2026

29. Puffin

Young (6 months) · Female · Tabby / Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat)

Puffin, a young female Tabby cat up for adoption

Hi, I’m Puffin — small name, big personality. I’m the fearless explorer of the household, the one who spots a loophole before anyone else even realizes there was a rule to begin with. If there’s a cabinet that “shouldn’t open,” a shelf that’s “too high,” or a door that’s “definitely closed,” I consider that a personal challenge.

I’m proudly independent, not in a standoffish way, just in a “don’t worry, I’ve got this” kind of way. I like checking things out on my own terms, mapping the territory, and then circling back to you with a satisfied little tail flick like, “You’re welcome, I’ve inspected everything.”

30. Duckie

Young (5 months 30 days) · Female · Tabby / Mixed (short coat)

Duckie, a young female Tabby cat up for adoption

I’m Duckie, your resident cleanliness enthusiast and part‑time personal groomer. If something in my world isn’t freshly washed, don’t worry — I’m already on it. I keep my fur immaculate, I tidy up my siblings, and every now and then you might feel my little sandpaper tongue on your arm or hand. That’s just me making sure you pass inspection too.

Rescues and shelters near Gilchrist County

The rescues with the most cats listed within 50 miles of the middle of Gilchrist County.

Sheltering Hands, IncOcala, FL · 35 cats
How to adopt from Sheltering Hands, Inc
Pre-adoption form with consent to run background check on all individuals over 18 in household. Includes vet check for animals in household to be spay/neutered and up to date on vaccinations. Agree to no declaw and indoor cat. Background check usually takes 24-48 hours. Home visit and delivery of cat. Adoption contract. Cats $40 and Kittens $50 includes Spay/Neuter, microchip, vaccinations including rabies.

Cities and towns in Gilchrist County

Adopting a cat in Gilchrist County

Most rescues ask you to fill in an application, meet the cat, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip. Many are foster-based, so you'll often meet your cat in a volunteer's home rather than a shelter.

Senior cats are often the calmest companions and the slowest to find homes. If you'd like a settled, affectionate cat, ask the rescues about their older residents.

Questions about adopting a cat in Gilchrist County

How many cats are up for adoption in Gilchrist County?

As of October 29, 2026, 35 cats and kittens are listed for adoption within 50 miles of the middle of Gilchrist County, Florida, by 1 rescue or shelter. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a cat in Gilchrist County?

The rescues with the most cats near Gilchrist County right now are Sheltering Hands, Inc (Ocala, FL). Each cat above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Are there kittens for adoption in Gilchrist County?

Not right now. Rescues within 50 miles of the middle of Gilchrist County have no kittens listed today, but new cats arrive every day, so check back soon.

How do I adopt a cat in Gilchrist County?

Pick a cat and contact the rescue or shelter looking after them. Most ask you to fill in an application, meet the cat, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip.

Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a cat may have been adopted since this page was updated.