Kid-Friendly Cats for Adoption in Joliet, IL: 25 Cats Good with Children
Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Joliet have 25 kid-friendly cats up for adoption. Here are all 25, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Every cat on this page has been marked by their rescue as good with children, usually because they've lived with kids in a foster home.
Not in Joliet? Find cats near your zip code.
1. Svengoolie
Meet Svengoolie!
He may look a little rough around the edges, but this Svengoolie is not scary at all! This sweet orange tabby boy has had a rough start in life. For his first two years, he endured a hoarding situation. His disposition shows that he must have received plenty of love, but his body condition shows that there was likely not enough food to go around. Sven is looking for a home where he will be able to count on having enough food at each meal to help him put on a little weight and develop a shiny, healthy coat of fur. He has a healthy appetite and is good with his litter box, and should thrive in a home environment.
Read more about Svengoolie
Sven just arrived at our cat center and started out very shy, hiding behind his blankets. As soon as he realized he was safe, he allowed himself to soak up all of the love our volunteers have to give. Sven comes out of his hiding spot as soon as we open his condo door. He leans his head into hands for pets, and immediately starts making biscuits and purring. He is one of those cats that likes to make sure that you are petting him with both hands!
Given his background, Sven needs a quiet home where he will be able to settle in at his own pace. He would likely do well with another cat in the home, but at this time dogs and young kids would be too much for him. He does give an occasional love bite when you are petting him, so his adopters should know how to gently redirect. We rescued him from his previous situation, but you can save him by giving him the loving home that he deserves.
Svengoolie
is micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations,
neutered
, and litter box trained.
Svengoolie
's adoption fee is $135. If you are interested in meeting
Svengoolie
, please fill out our Online Application today!
Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- No dogs
2. Dean
I am a laidback guy that loves to be pet and played with. I get along well with other cats and would probably be good with kids.
Dean is micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations, neuetered, and litter box trained.
Dean' s adoption fee is $135. If you are interested in meeting Dean, please fill out our Online Application today!
Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
3. Sweden and Shrimp
Meet Shrimp and Sweden, a bonded pair with twice the love and twice the personality! These two were found outdoors together, and they’ve been inseparable ever since. Shrimp is a certified cuddlebug who loves being held and will happily serenade you with his loud, rumbling purr. Sweden is the playful adventurer of the duo, always ready to race around, chase toys, or perch by the window to watch the world go by.
Read more about Sweden and Shrimp
Whether they’re snuggled up side by side or showing off their unique personalities, these two make the perfect pair. They share a special bond that’s impossible not to fall in love with, and they’re ready to find a forever home where they can stay together and fill your days with cuddles, playtime, and endless love.
Sweden and Shrimp
are micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations,
neutered
, and litter box trained.
Sweden and Shrimp
's combined adoption fee is $270 ($135 each). If you are interested in meeting Sweden and Shrimp, please fill out our Online Application today!
Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Adopt together
4. Bitty
Want someone who’s genuinely thrilled every single time you come home? Bitty has you covered!
The moment you open the door, Bitty will come looking for you, ready to welcome you home. From there, expect to have a little shadow following you around the house. He’s incredibly affectionate and loves being near his people, but he’s also perfectly capable of doing his own thing—making him a great combination of cuddly and independent.
Read more about Bitty
Bitty is also very friendly with other animals. His only problem? He firmly believes that everyone must love him. Sometimes he’s still figuring out that his animal friends may not appreciate quite as much togetherness as he does! He’s only about a year old, though, and he’s still learning those personal-space boundaries.
Sweet, social, young, and full of love, Bitty would be a wonderful companion for someone who wants an affectionate little buddy without needing a cat permanently attached to their lap.
Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started. https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee is $140 and includes includes spay, microchip, age appropriate/required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
5. Jazz
Jazz is a sweet, social girl who desperately wants to be your friend—she’s just still figuring out how to be brave enough to do it!
Jazz absolutely loves other cats and comes running when her foster humans walk through the door. She wants to be wherever the people are and will hang out as close to them as she can. There’s just one catch: as much as Jazz loves people, she’s still scared of being touched.
Read more about Jazz
That certainly doesn’t stop her from trying, though! Jazz plays with toys with her foster humans, comes yelling for them when they get home, and has even gotten brave enough to give them a quick little poke with her nose before running away. Every small interaction is another step toward learning that people can be safe.
Jazz hasn’t had much experience with humans, and even in her short time in foster care, she has already made wonderful progress. She’ll need a patient adopter who is willing to let her build trust at her own pace rather than expecting her to become a cuddly cat overnight.
Because she absolutely adores other cats, Jazz would make a wonderful companion for another kitty. A confident feline friend may even help show her that these strange human creatures aren’t so scary after all!
Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started. https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee is $140 and includes includes spay, microchip, age appropriate/required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
6. Harry
Do you ever feel like you have a little too much personal space? Harry can fix that for you!
Harry is a big love bug who wants nothing more than to be in direct contact with his people. In your lap? Absolutely. Lying on your belly? Even better. Pressed against your arm because being three inches away is simply unacceptable? Obviously.
Read more about Harry
Harry can seem a little nervous when he first meets someone, but all it takes is one pet and suddenly you’re his best friend. Once he decides you’re safe, prepare to have a very affectionate little shadow. Harry also loves other animals and enjoys their company, although, thankfully for them, he understands their personal space a little better than he understands ours!
If you’re looking for a sweet, affectionate companion who believes cuddling should be a full-contact sport, Harry might be your guy
Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started. https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee is $140 and includes includes neuter, microchip, age appropriate/required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
7. Kernel
Hi my name is Kernel! I was found all alone in a corn field after the corn had been cut down. A helpful person took me to animal control and from there I found my foster family. Ever since I popped up- I have been an a-maize-ing houseguest. Kernel is friendly and playful! An all around purrfect kitty with so much love and affection for his people. He loves to cuddle up on your lap and is a sucker for belly rubs. He is a young cat - around 16 weeks old and he needs another friendly cat waiting for him at his new home --or adopt a second available cat at the same time to keep him entertained! Kernel is a beautiful buff tabby and his little cherub face just melts your heart. He loves to play with all kinds of toys - and he even has a little catnip plush corn that he will bring with him to his forever home!
Read more about Kernel
We encourage you to consider adopting kittens in pairs! There are several reasons why
Kernel
would do good with a friend, including:
-Two kittens keep each other entertained - they will play and get all their energy out on each other in time for snuggles with you!
-Having two kittens to play with each other prevents "I'm lonely and bored" behavioral issues.
-Watching two kittens wrestle is quite possibly the cutest thing you will ever see.
-The kittens will teach each other "how to cat" and learn to be more social with humans and people.
-You'll save two lives instead of one!
Kernel
is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations,
neutered
, and litter box trained.
Kernel
's adoption fee is $165. Please note A.R.F. does not approve applications for any kitten under 6 months of age to families that live outside of Illinois and/or beyond 100 miles of Wheaton or Glen Ellyn, IL.
If you are interested in meeting
Kernel
, please fill out our
online kitten adoption application at https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/application/ today!
Once your application has been approved, an A.R.F. volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
8. Lexi
Lexi will be at the Darien Petsmart adoption event Saturday, October 31st from 11-2.
Fostered in a home with siblings, Alice and Ethel.
Read more about Lexi
Lexi was born into her fosters home from a feral pregnant cat they took in. Mom is all vetted and is now part of the foster's family. As much as they would have loved to keep all of the kittens, of course that was not possible. Now Lexi is ready to find her forever home She is very playful and has a gentle soul. Can be clingy always wanting to be on or next to you. She is just now being introduced to other cats in the foster home and is doing well but honestly I think she would do fine as an only cat that can soak up all of your attention.
We encourage you to consider adopting kittens in pairs! There are several reasons why Lexi would do well with a sibling or friend, including:
-Two kittens keep each other entertained - they will play and get all their energy out on each other in time for snuggles with you!
-Having two kittens to play with each other prevents "I'm lonely and bored" behavioral issues.
-Watching two kittens wrestle is quite possibly the cutest thing you will ever see.
-The kittens will teach each other "how to cat" and learn to be more social with humans and people.
-You'll save two lives instead of one!
Lexi is micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations, spayed, and litter box trained.
Lexi's adoption fee is $165. Please note A.R.F. does not approve applications for any kitten under 6 months of age to families that live outside of Illinois and/or beyond 100 miles of Wheaton or Glen Ellyn, IL.
If you are interested in meeting Lexi, please fill out our
online kitten adoption application at https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/application/ today!
Once your application has been approved, an A.R.F. volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- House-trained
9. Alice
Alice will be at the Darien Petsmart adoption event Saturday, October 31st from 11-2.
Fostered with siblings, Lexi and Ethel.
Read more about Alice
Alice was born into her fosters home from a feral pregnant cat they took in. Mom is all vetted and is now part of the foster's family. As much as they would have loved to keep all of the kittens, of course that was not possible. Now Alice is ready to find her forever home. She is very affectionate and loves to crawl into your lap for pets. Some days I call her velcro since I can't get her off my lap. She co-exists with the other fosters and cats in the house, but would also do well as an only cat to soak up the attention.
We encourage you to consider adopting kittens in pairs! There are several reasons why Alice would do well with a sibling or friend, including:
-Two kittens keep each other entertained - they will play and get all their energy out on each other in time for snuggles with you!
-Having two kittens to play with each other prevents "I'm lonely and bored" behavioral issues.
-Watching two kittens wrestle is quite possibly the cutest thing you will ever see.
-The kittens will teach each other "how to cat" and learn to be more social with humans and people.
-You'll save two lives instead of one!
Alice is micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations, spayed, and litter box trained.
Alice's adoption fee is $165. Please note A.R.F. does not approve applications for any kitten under 6 months of age to families that live outside of Illinois and/or beyond 100 miles of Wheaton or Glen Ellyn, IL.
If you are interested in meeting Alice, please fill out our
online kitten adoption application at https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/application/ today!
Once your application has been approved, an A.R.F. volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
10. Sashi
Sashi was living her best life until her owner had to go into a long-term medical facility. Sashi was relinquished and now she is looking for her forever home.
Sashi is a six-year-old brown tabby that is a very friendly, talkative girl that loves all humans that she meets. She especially likes to be scratched on her cheek and chin. Sashi is good with adults and older children, but since she has never met another cat or dog, she will be adopted into a home where she can be the only pet.
If you are looking for a good cat friend that is sweet and mellow, look no further than Sashi. She would love to meet you.
Read more about Sashi
You can find Sashi at A.R.F’s cat center at Wheaton PetSmart.
Sashi is micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations, spayed, and litter box trained.
Sashi's adoption fee is $ 135. If you are interested in meeting Sashi, please fill out our Online Application today!
Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Only cat
- No dogs
11. Pecan
If you're looking for a kitten who will melt your heart, look no further than Pecan! This precious little girl is as sweet as her name and has so much love to give!
Pecan is an incredibly affectionate little sweetheart who absolutely adores attention. She loves being around people and is always happy to soak up some extra love and affection. Her little purr motor seems to run nonstop, especially when she's getting the attention she loves so much! She's the kind of kitten who will make you feel special every single day.
Read more about Pecan
One of Pecan's favorite things to do is curl up in her cat tower and soak up the warm sunshine. When she's not enjoying a little sunbathing, you'll find her playing, chasing, and wrestling with her brother Biscuit and her foster siblings. She loves having kitty friends to share her adventures with!
Interested in meeting Pecan All our cats are in foster homes as we do not have a facility where people can come and meet the cats at any time. The first step is to complete our online application at the link below. Once we have an approved application we can set up an appointment for you to meet her.
Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started.
https://starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
12. Biscuit
Meet Biscuit – The Sweetest Little Orange Lovebug! If you're looking for a kitten who will steal your heart, look no further than Biscuit! This handsome orange tabby is truly one of the sweetest, friendliest little guys you will ever meet! He has a heart full of love, a playful personality, and a purr motor that never seems to turn off! Biscuit absolutely adores attention and is always happy to soak up all the love you have to give. Whether you're petting him, cuddling him, or simply spending time with him, he'll reward you with the sweetest purrs. He's the kind of kitten who makes you smile just by being around him! When he's not busy being a little lovebug, Biscuit loves playing, chasing toys, and having fun with his two sisters, Maple and Pecan. The three of them are the cutest little trio! After a busy day of kitten adventures, one of Biscuit's favorite things to do is curl up with his sisters in their cat tower, basking in the warm sunshine and enjoying a cozy afternoon nap. And let's not forget one of Biscuit's greatest loves — Squeeze Up treats! The way to this little guy's heart is definitely through his tummy! He never turns down a tasty treat and will happily enjoy every last lick. Biscuit is the perfect combination of sweet, affectionate, playful, and lovable. He has so much love to give and is ready to share it with a lucky forever family. Whether he's making you laugh with his kitten antics or melting your heart with his endless purrs, Biscuit is sure to fill your home with happiness, cuddles, and unconditional love. One thing is certain — life is just a little sweeter with a Biscuit in it!
Read more about Biscuit
Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started. https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee of $175 includes includes neuter, microchip, age appropriate/required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
13. Bebe
Bebe might sometimes look grumpy in her pictures, but she is the sweetest girl! Bebe is very affectionate! She trails around the house after her foster mom and dad always wanting to see what they are doing and if she can help! She is an amazing biscuit maker. She will jump up on her foster mom or dad's laps and make biscuits until you ask her to stop. She can often be found in her foster mom's lap while she works. She's a sweet girl who would do great in a home by herself, or with other cats given a proper introduction period. Like most cats, she will need a slow introduction to other cats to ensure that everyone is happy together.
Read more about Bebe
Interested in meeting Bebe? All our cats are in foster homes as we do not have a facility where people can come and meet the cats at any time. The first step is to complete our online application at the link below. Once we have an approved application we can set up an appointment for you to meet her.
Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started.
https://starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee of $140 includes spay, microchip, age appropriate/ required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
Interested in meeting Bebe? All our cats are in foster homes as we do not have a facility where people can come and meet the cats at any time. The first step is to complete our online application at the link below. Once we have an approved application we can set up an appointment for you to meet her. Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started.
https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee of $140 includes spay/neuter, microchip, age appropriate/ required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
14. Tux
If you work from home, Tux may just be your perfect coworker. She loves being near her people, although she doesn't necessarily need to be in your lap. She's perfectly content sitting beside you or hanging out at your desk, carefully supervising everything you do. Someone has to make sure you're getting your work done!
Tux can be a timid girl at first and likes to put on a tough, independent act—as if she couldn't possibly care whether you give her attention. But don't let her fool you! Bring out a toy and her personality comes shining through. She loves to play, and watching her come out of her shell is part of what makes her so special.
Read more about Tux
And underneath that independent exterior is a serious little lovebug. Once Tux feels safe and comfortable enough to settle into your lap, you'll discover her secret: this girl can PURR! Get her cozy and that little motor will run like there's no tomorrow.
Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started. https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee is $175 and includes includes neuter, microchip, age appropriate/required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
15. Soul Surfer
Hang loose, everyone—Soul Surfer is a 5-year-old black-and-white gentleman who’s always ready to catch the next wave of adventure!
This curious guy loves to explore and find out what kind of fun is happening nearby. When he’s not busy adventuring, Soul Surfer is happy to switch gears and enjoy some good old-fashioned playtime and snuggles. He even seems pretty chill about being carried for short periods—talk about going with the flow!
Read more about Soul Surfer
Soul Surfer is great with kids and appears to do well with both dogs and other cats when introductions are slow, thoughtful, and respectful. He’s the kind of laid-back dude who just needs a little time to find his footing before settling into the groove.
If you’re looking for a playful, affectionate, adventurous companion with a “no worries, just vibes” attitude, Soul Surfer might be your perfect match.
Soul Surfer is micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations, neutered, and litter box trained.
Soul Surfer's adoption fee is $ 135. If you are interested in meeting Soul Surfer, please fill out our Online Application today!
Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
16. Paulie
"Paulie is a big guy at 15lbs, but he is light on his feet and moves gracefully. Shy at first, once he feels safe, Paulie is friendly and appreciates gentle pets and kind words. He has lived easily with other adult male cats in his foster home and plays with them regularly. Paulie is litter box trained, eats regular dry and canned cat food and is tidy little roommate. The vet describes his disposition as "sweet."
Read more about Paulie
Paulie can be adopted on his own, with a cat friend from his foster home (Richie, Brodie, Spookie) or into a home with a current cat. He needs a gentle loving family with respectful children or an adult household that will give him the low key attention he craves."
Paulie is micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations,
neutered
, and litter box trained.
Paulie's adoption fee is $135. If you are interested in meeting Paulie, please fill out our Online Application today!
Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
17. Sweetie Pie and Larry BONDED PAIR
Some friendships are simply meant to be, and Sweetie Pie and Larry are living proof. Sweetie Pie's story began with heartbreak. Born the runt of her litter, she was the only kitten to survive after losing all her siblings to what veterinarians believed may have been fading kitten syndrome. Despite such a difficult beginning, this brave little girl grew into the sweetest, most affectionate kitten. Her foster mom brought her to work, surrounded her with love, and introduced her to other cats so she would never have to feel alone. But even after meeting several foster kittens, something was still missing. That was until Larry came along.
Read more about Sweetie Pie and Larry BONDED PAIR
From the moment they met, their connection was undeniable. Larry became the very first kitten Sweetie Pie ever cuddled with, and the two have been inseparable ever since. Whether they're curled up together for a nap, snuggling in their foster mom's lap, or purring themselves to sleep beside her at night, these two have mastered the art of loving and being loved. They're incredibly affectionate, playful, confident, and always ready to make a new friend. Both have been well-socialized with people, other cats, and even their foster family's Chihuahua!
Sweetie Pie and Larry have already experienced how beautiful life can be when you're surrounded by love, patience, and kindness. Now, they're ready for the next chapter of their story, one where they can grow up together in a forever home. They're looking for a family who has plenty of cuddles to give, doesn't mind sharing their bed with two little purring machines, and understands that some bonds are simply too special to separate. After everything Sweetie Pie has overcome, finding Larry was her happy beginning. Could you be the family that gives them their happily ever after?
Please note: Sweetie Pie and Larry are a bonded pair, meaning that they must go to a home together. There are several reasons why Sweetie Pie and Larry would do well in a home together.
-Two kittens keep each other entertained
- They will play and get all their energy out on each other in time for snuggles with you!
- Having two kittens to play with each other prevents "I'm lonely and bored" behavioral issues.
- Watching two kittens wrestle is quite possibly the cutest thing you will ever see.
- The kittens will teach each other "how to cat" and learn to be more social with humans and people.
- You'll save two lives instead of one!
Sweetie Pie and Larry are microchipped, up-to-date on all vaccinations, spayed/neutered, and litter box trained. Sweetie Pie and Larry’s combined adoption fee is $330 ($165 x 2). If you are interested in meeting them, please fill out our Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
- Adopt together
18. Nelly
Nelly will be at the Darien Petsmart adoption event Saturday, October 31st from 11-2.
Read more about Nelly
Perfection is Nelly's nick name. Nelly is a sweet, cuddly little black kitten who loves nothing more than getting attention from her people. She is pure perfection. Give her some pets and affection, and you’ll quickly hear her happy purrs start up! Nelly will sleep with you in bed all night. She is always ready to play. I often wake up in the morning to a pile of toys next to me that she had been gathering all night. She loves all people and all cats. We think it would be best for her to go to a home with a kitty companion whether that is adopting her with another kitten or having one already at home to play with. She is the last of her litter to be adopted out, and she misses playing with them. She has learned to play fetch with us when she is looking for playtime. She would be a great addition to any family. She would even likely be ok with a dog. She has never been introduced to one, I bet she would play and snuggle with a dog too. And she has the SOFTEST fur you will find. Seriously, this cat is perfect!
We encourage you to consider adopting kittens in pairs! There are several reasons why Nelly would do better with a sibling or friend, including:
-Two kittens keep each other entertained - they will play and get all their energy out on each other in time for snuggles with you!
-Having two kittens to play with each other prevents "I'm lonely and bored" behavioral issues.
-Watching two kittens wrestle is quite possibly the cutest thing you will ever see.
-The kittens will teach each other "how to cat" and learn to be more social with humans and people.
-You'll save two lives instead of one!
Nelly is micro-chipped, up to date on all vaccinations,
spayed
, and litter box trained.
Nelly's adoption fee is $165. Please note A.R.F. does not approve applications for any kitten under 6 months of age to families that live outside of Illinois and/or beyond 100 miles of Wheaton or Glen Ellyn, IL.
If you are interested in meeting Nelly, please fill out our
online kitten adoption application at https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/application/ today!
Once your application has been approved, an A.R.F. volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
19. Steamy
Steamy is a sweet young tabby girl who LOVES to play and will want to snuggle up with you, too. She will want to be a cherished part of your family and would do well as an only cat who gets lots of attention or with another feline-friendly sibling. Once she blossoms she has the makings of becoming a YouTube star, although shed prefer plenty of petting and playtime with you.
Read more about Steamy
If you're searching for a loving cat who will fill your home with purrs, companionship, and endless sweetness, Steamy is ready to meet you! All our cats are in foster homes as we do not have a facility where people can come and meet the cats at any time. The first step is to complete our online application at the link below. Once we have an approved application we can set up an appointment for you to meet her. Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started.
https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee of $140 includes spay, microchip, age appropriate/ required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
20. Springy
Springy is an adorable, petite, medium coat beautiful girl! She is thought to be about 8 months old. She would do well in a quieter home where she can blossom! She will make a great companion with her sweet disposition.
Read more about Springy
If you're searching for a loving cat who will fill your home with purrs, companionship, and endless sweetness, Springy is ready to meet you! All our cats are in foster homes as we do not have a facility where people can come and meet the cats at any time. The first step is to complete our online application at the link below. Once we have an approved application we can set up an appointment for you to meet her. Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started.
https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee of $140 includes spay, microchip, age appropriate/ required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
Although we make the best guess on the breed of our cats, because they come from shelters, we can never be completely certain of the genetic makeup of the cat. All we can tell you for sure is that they are 100% RESCUED!
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
21. Zeppy
Zeppy is a beautiful medium hair cat with a gorgeous tail and shiny coat. She was one of five cats living in a van when she was surrendered to Starfish. The night before she was to go in for spay surgery, she surprised us with two precious babies. Still a kitten herself, she nonetheless became an amazing, attentive and loving mom. With her adorable babies now adopted into their loving, forever home, she has reclaimed high-energy kitten status for herself. Don’t let her initial shyness fool you, she doesn’t just play, she PLAYS! Her specialties include jumping and pouncing.
Read more about Zeppy
She would do well with another high-energy, friendly cat who would like to tumble around with her. She would also be good as an only cat with a family that could give her a lot of attention, play time, and love.
All our cats are in foster homes as we do not have a facility where people can come and meet the cats at any time. The first step is to complete our online application at the link below. Once we have an approved application we can set up an appointment for you to meet her. Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started.
https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
Clicking the "Start your Inquiry" button is internal to Petfinder, and will only delay the process - please copy the link above to our application to start the process.
The adoption fee of $140 includes spay, microchip, age appropriate/ required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
22. Holstein
I am the coolest of my litter, not much bothers me. I love a good snuggle spot and love to play, I will dominate any toy that gets in my way!
My favorite thing is the bathroom sink, while my siblings are exploring the house I will happily play with the drippy drips. I’m pretty independent but still need to come for my some snuggles. If you are watching tv I will come into your lap to make sure you take a break once in a while and pet me!
I have met so many people and love that everyone plays with me, kids and adults! I haven’t met a dog but I’ve gotten along with my foster family’s cats.
Read more about Holstein
Holstein is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, spayed/neutered, and litter box trained. Holstein’s adoption fee is $135.
If you are interested in meeting him, please fill out our online kitten adoption application at https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/application/ today! Once your application has been approved, an A.R.F. volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
23. Devon
I am best known for my calm demeanor and my perfect white handlebar mustache. My foster mom likes to joke that my mustache and grey hairs on my face make me look like a little old man.
I am the gentle giant of my siblings and ironically the least confident. But once you have my trust just give my checks some schritches or rub my belly and I will happily roll onto my back and give you kisses. I love to snuggle next to my foster mom.
I haven’t met a dog but I’ve gotten along with my foster family’s cats. I need to have a friend in the home with me.
Read more about Devon
Devon is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, spayed/neutered, and litter box trained. Devon’s adoption fee is $135.
If you are interested in meeting him, please fill out our online kitten adoption application at https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/application/ today! Once your application has been approved, an A.R.F. volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
24. Fairway
Fairway is a beautiful brown tabby with a heart as warm as a sunny day on the course. This sweet girl came from a home with other cats and has proven she can share the clubhouse just fine. She gets along well with feline companions, but Fairway likes to make sure she remains a favorite player on the team. If another cat starts getting all the attention, she'll happily step in to remind you she's ready for her turn in the spotlight!
A wonderful and devoted mother, Fairway has a gentle, nurturing personality that shines through in everything she does. She does great with kids and enjoys being part of the family action.
Read more about Fairway
When she's not seeking affection, you'll often find Fairway perched by a window, watching the birds and keeping an eye on everything happening outside. Her favorite reward after a long day of "course management"? A tasty serving of wet food!
If you're looking for a loving companion who enjoys attention, family time, and a front-row seat to nature's entertainment, Fairway is ready to be your hole-in-one
Fairway is microchipped, up to date on all vaccinations, spayed, and litter box trained. Fairway’s adoption fee is $135. If you are interested in meeting her, please fill out our Online Application today! Once your application has been approved, an ARF volunteer will be able to contact you to arrange a meeting.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
25. The Lorax
This adorable and sweet boy is The Lorax - he speaks for the trees!
The Lorax is around 10 weeks old and is a big sweetie! He loves to play and entertain his foster family with his goofy antics. The Lorax enjoys hanging out with his sisters and he will need to go to a home with another kitty friend. He's litter box trained and loves his food! Complete an application today to make The Lorax a part of your home!
Read more about The Lorax
Interested in meeting The Lorax?? All our cats are in foster homes as we do not have a facility where people can come and meet the cats at any time. The first step is to complete our online application at the link below. Once we have an approved application we can set up an appointment for you to meet him.
Please copy/paste the link below into a browser window to get started. https://www.starfishanimalrescue.com/adopt/cat-adoption-application
The adoption fee is $175 and includes includes neuter, microchip, age appropriate/required vaccinations and any other necessary medical treatment to assure a healthy new cat for your family.
Although we make the best guess on the breed of our cats, because they come from shelters, we can never be completely certain of the genetic makeup of the cat. All we can tell you for sure is that they are 100% RESCUED!
Thank you for wanting to adopt a Starfish Animal Rescue cat! Learn more about us, our mission, and our volunteer opportunities on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/starfishanimalrescue
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
Adopting a cat with children in Joliet
Bring the whole family to meet the cat before you adopt, and ask the rescue how the cat behaves around children your kids' ages.
Teach children to let the cat come to them, to stroke gently, and to leave the cat alone while it's eating, sleeping or using the litter box. Give the cat a high or quiet spot to retreat to.
Relaxed adult cats are often a better match for young children than kittens, which scratch and nip while they play.
Rescues with kid-friendly cats near Joliet
- Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL)Wheaton, IL · 14 kid-friendly cats above
- Starfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · 11 kid-friendly cats above
Questions about adopting kid-friendly cats in Joliet
How many kid-friendly cats are up for adoption in Joliet?
As of October 29, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Joliet, Illinois, have 25 kid-friendly cats up for adoption. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a kid-friendly cat in Joliet?
The rescues with the most kid-friendly cats near Joliet right now are Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL) (Wheaton, IL) and Starfish Animal Rescue (Plainfield, IL). Each cat above has the rescue's phone number and website.
What kind of cat is best with kids?
A calm, confident cat that the rescue has seen around children. Adult cats are often easier than kittens with young kids, since their personalities are known and they play less roughly.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a cat may have been adopted since this page was updated.