Illinois

Cats for Adoption in University Park, IL: 20 Cats Looking for a Home

Clover, up for adoption near University Park, IL

331 cats and kittens are waiting for homes at 13 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of University Park. Here are the 20 nearest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Of the cats up for adoption within 50 miles of University Park, 152 kittens, 56 young cats, 97 adults and 7 seniors. Most are domestic shorthairs and other mixed breeds, but you'll also find Abyssinian and American Shorthair cats.

1. Clover

4 Months 21 Days · Female · Domestic Short Hair · 20 mi from University Park

Clover is one of the "Dumpster" litter found in a Winfield dumpster. She's got a cute black heart nose and beautiful markings. She's been socialized on the daily by her fosters. While she's still a bit shy, she's making real progress in becoming a sweet pet. She enjoys interactive play with the cat dancer and loves her sisters Penny and Fortuna for anyone looking for more than 1. She's been spayed and is ready to find her forever home with the right person.

Adopt Clover fromWhiskers of WinfieldCrown Point, IN · listed Jul 15

2. Gimpy

2 Months 29 Days · Domestic Short Hair · 25 mi from University Park

Hi I'm Gimpy. I got my name from my small, deformed leg. It might be a little crooked but that don't stop me from my daily activities. I love to run and play with the best of them. I would love to show you how much fun I can be and be a part of your family.

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Gimpy fromFeline Blessings Rescue & SanctuaryHobart, IN · listed Oct 17

3. Chance

Young (6 months) · Female · Calico (short coat) · 25 mi from University Park

A very sweet girl name Chance is waiting for her furr ever home. She is bright and energetic if she's not just sitting and admiring her surroundings. She would love to be part of your family.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
Adopt Chance fromFeline Blessings Rescue & SanctuaryHobart, IN · listed Jul 29

4. Angelo

Kitten (4 months 12 days) · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat) · 25 mi from University Park

Meet Angelo! Angelo has a huge personality and an even bigger heart! This sweet little kitten is playful, very curious and always ready for his next adventure. He's very vocal especially when he wants your attention. come meet up with Angelo to see if he's your missing piece.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Angelo fromFeline Blessings Rescue & SanctuaryHobart, IN · listed Jul 17

5. Gianna

3 Years 2 Months · Female · Dilute Tortoiseshell / Russian Blue / Mixed (short coat) · 26 mi from University Park

Meet Gianna – A Beautiful, Shy Girl with a Gentle Heart!

With her gorgeous dilute tortoiseshell coat, striking green eyes, and delicate features, Gianna is a beautiful little lady who prefers to appreciate life from a safe and comfortable distance—at least until she gets to know you!

Gianna is a very shy girl, and she's not the kind of cat who will rush over to greet strangers or demand attention. She prefers to take her time, observe her surroundings, and decide for herself when it's safe to venture out. But behind that cautious exterior is a sweet, sensitive soul who deserves a loving home where she can finally feel secure.

Read more about Gianna

Gianna has a few favorite things that make her world a happy place. Canned food is definitely near the top of the list! A delicious meal is always appreciated and may be one of the best ways to begin earning her trust.

She also absolutely loves her cat tree! Having a comfortable perch where she can relax, feel safe, and watch the world go by is very important to her. And if that cat tree happens to be near a window, even better! Gianna enjoys watching birds and can spend plenty of time quietly observing all the fascinating activity outside.

When it comes to other cats, Gianna is perfectly comfortable sharing her space. She gets along fine with feline companions and could do well in a home with other calm, respectful cats.

What Gianna needs most is a patient, understanding person who doesn't expect instant affection. Someone who will give her the space to settle in, establish a routine, and gradually learn that her new home is a safe place.

She's a wonderful match for someone who appreciates quieter cats and understands that building a relationship with a shy kitty can take time. Every little step forward, every moment of growing confidence, can become something truly special.

If you have a peaceful home, a comfortable cat tree by the window, and a heart big enough to give a shy little girl the time she needs, Gianna would love the chance to become part of your family.

Sometimes the most beautiful friendships begin quietly!

  • Good with cats
Adopt Gianna fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed Oct 11

6. Denny

Adult (10 months) · Female · Maine Coon / Mixed (long coat) · 26 mi from University Park

Meet Denny – A Beautiful Girl with a Shy but Sweet Heart!

Some cats are born to steal the spotlight, while others prefer to quietly capture your heart. Denny is definitely the second kind!

Denny is an absolutely gorgeous girl with a luxurious black-and-white coat, beautiful green eyes, and a face that is even more stunning in person than her photographs can capture. She's a real beauty, although she's far too modest to know it!

Read more about Denny

But Denny isn't just a pretty face. She's a gentle, sensitive girl who happens to be quite shy around people. She's not one to rush forward demanding attention, and she prefers to observe the world from a safe, comfortable spot until she feels confident enough to venture out.

There is, however, one thing that can make Denny forget some of her reservations—canned food! This lovely lady has a healthy appreciation for a delicious meal, and food may well be the secret to winning her trust.

Denny also gets along fine with other cats. She's comfortable sharing her space with feline companions, which could make a home with other calm, friendly cats a good fit for her.

What Denny needs most is a patient, understanding person who will appreciate her for who she is. Someone who won't expect instant affection or rush her into interactions, but will give her the freedom to settle in, feel secure, and build trust at her own pace.

Watching a shy cat gradually become comfortable is a special kind of reward, and Denny deserves someone willing to give her that opportunity.

If you have a peaceful home, a patient heart, and a soft spot for beautiful, sensitive cats, Denny might be the girl you've been waiting for.

She may not fall in love with you on the first day, but with time, kindness, and perhaps a little canned food, a beautiful friendship could begin!

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Denny fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed Oct 11

7. Benny

Adult (10 months) · Female · Maine Coon / Mixed (long coat) · 26 mi from University Park

Meet Benny – A Fluffy Sweetheart Who Enjoys the Good Life!

With her beautiful black-and-white coat, gorgeous green eyes, and wonderfully fluffy appearance, Benny is a lovely lady who knows how to enjoy life's simple pleasures!

Benny is a friendly, sociable girl who enjoys human company and is always happy to receive some attention. She's an easygoing companion who doesn't need to be the center of every activity but appreciates being included in everyday life.

Read more about Benny

One of Benny's favorite places is her cat tree, where she can stretch out, relax, and keep an eye on everything happening around her. Whether she's perched up high surveying her surroundings or simply enjoying a comfortable afternoon nap, Benny knows how to make herself at home.

And when it's time for dinner? Well, that's an entirely different story! Benny absolutely loves her canned food! A delicious meal is definitely one of the quickest ways to earn her appreciation.

Benny also gets along well with other cats, making her a wonderful candidate for a home with feline companions. She's comfortable sharing her space and would be equally happy in a home where she can enjoy plenty of human attention.

What makes Benny special is her lovely balance of sociability and independence. She's friendly without being demanding, enjoys companionship without needing constant entertainment, and has a gentle, pleasant presence that makes her easy to love.

If you're looking for a beautiful, friendly companion who appreciates a cozy cat tree, a tasty dinner, and the company of good friends, Benny might be just the girl you've been waiting for!

Give her a comfortable perch, a little affection, and her favorite canned food, and Benny will feel right at home!

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Benny fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed Oct 11

8. Fuzzy Tail

Young · Female · Maine Coon / Mixed (long coat) · 26 mi from University Park

Meet Fuzzy Tail – A Little Girl with a Big Heart and Lots of Love!

Don't let her name fool you—Fuzzy Tail isn't just about the fluff! This adorable little lady has a personality that's every bit as delightful as her appearance.

Fuzzy Tail may be small for a Maine Coon, but what she lacks in size, she more than makes up for in affection! She's an incredibly friendly, loving girl who believes that one of life's greatest pleasures is a good cuddle with her favorite human.

Read more about Fuzzy Tail

If you're looking for a cat who genuinely enjoys human companionship, Fuzzy Tail is your girl! She loves attention, welcomes affection, and is always happy to spend some quality time with the people she loves.

Of course, even the most devoted cuddlebug needs a little personal time, and Fuzzy Tail has a favorite retreat—her cat tree! Whether she's lounging on a comfortable platform, surveying the room from above, or simply enjoying a peaceful afternoon, her cat tree is her happy place. A nice tall cat tree in her forever home would certainly earn you extra points!

When it comes to other cats, Fuzzy Tail is wonderfully easygoing. She gets along just fine with her feline roommates, although she doesn't seem particularly interested in making them the center of her world. She's perfectly content to share her space with other cats while focusing most of her affection on her humans.

That makes her a lovely candidate for either a home with other friendly, respectful cats or a home where she can enjoy being the center of attention.

With her sweet personality, affectionate nature, and charmingly fluffy appearance, Fuzzy Tail has all the makings of a wonderful companion.

If you've been dreaming of a friendly little sweetheart who loves cuddles, appreciates a good cat tree, and will happily make herself at home in your heart, Fuzzy Tail is waiting to meet you!

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Fuzzy Tail fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed Oct 11

9. Ding Dong

Kitten (3 months 28 days) · Male · Abyssinian / Mixed (short coat) · 26 mi from University Park

Meet Ding Dong – A Whole Lot of Love, Mischief, and Personality!

If you're looking for a kitten who does everything with enthusiasm, meet Ding Dong! This lovable little goofball is super affectionate, super cuddly, super playful, and super mischievous! Whatever Ding Dong does, he does it with his whole heart.

Ding Dong has never met a person he didn't want to cuddle or an adventure he didn't want to investigate. He's curious, fearless, and absolutely convinced that life is one big playground designed especially for him.

Read more about Ding Dong

But his greatest passion? FOOD! Ding Dong takes mealtime very seriously. If you're opening a can of cat food, don't be surprised if you suddenly feel tiny paws climbing up your back. Before you know it, Ding Dong will be perched on your shoulder, supervising the entire operation and wondering what's taking so long!

Despite his mischievous ways, Ding Dong is an incredibly loving little boy who adores attention and affection. He's the kind of kitten who will keep you laughing with his silly antics and then melt your heart with his cuddles.

His very best friend is Bibbidi Mel, a sweet, gentle boy who provides the perfect balance to Ding Dong's larger-than-life personality. The two are wonderful buddies, and we'd love for them to find a forever home together. However, Ding Dong can also be adopted on his own.

If your home could use a little more laughter, a lot more love, and perhaps an unexpected kitten on your shoulder, Ding Dong is ready to ring your bell!

Just remember to keep the food coming!

Ding Dong is available through our foster-to-adopt program, giving him a chance to settle into his new home before the adoption is finalized.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Ding Dong fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed Oct 11

10. Bibbidi Mel

Kitten (3 months 28 days) · Male · Abyssinian / Mixed (short coat) · 26 mi from University Park

Meet Bibbidi Mel – A Gentle Little Sweetheart!

Bibbidi Mel (or simply Mel to his friends) is a sweet, gentle little boy with a heart full of love and just a touch of shyness. He may take a little time to warm up, but once he feels comfortable, his affectionate nature begins to shine.

One of Mel's most adorable habits is the way he responds to being petted. Instead of demanding attention, he simply leans ever so slightly into your hand, as if quietly saying, "Oh, yes, I really like that. Please don't stop." It's such a small gesture, but absolutely heart-melting!

Read more about Bibbidi Mel

Mel has a few great passions in life: delicious food, climbing his cat tree, and watching birds through the window. He can happily spend ages observing the feathered visitors outside, dreaming of adventures while enjoying the comforts of home.

His very best friend is Ding Dong, a playful little fellow who brings out Mel's adventurous side. The two boys share a wonderful friendship, and we'd love to see them adopted together. However, Mel can also be adopted on his own into a loving, patient home where he'll have the time and encouragement to blossom at his own pace.

If you're looking for a gentle, affectionate companion whose quiet little expressions of love will make you smile every day, Bibbidi Mel might just be your perfect match!

Mel is available through our foster-to-adopt program, giving him a chance to settle into their new home before the adoption is finalized.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Bibbidi Mel fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed Oct 11

12. Busy Bee Don

Kitten (3 months 16 days) · Male · Abyssinian / Mixed (short coat) · 26 mi from University Park

Meet Don!

Linden is one of our adorable Busy Bees, a group of five kittens who aren't siblings but came together and quickly became their own little kitten family.

Don is a sweet, cuddly boy with an athlete's heart. He loves affection and will happily settle in for cuddles, but when it's playtime, Don is ready for action!

Cardboard scratchers are a particular favorite, and if there's something to climb, explore, investigate—or possibly get into that he shouldn't—Linden will probably find it. He's curious, energetic, and wonderfully mischievous, with the kind of playful personality that makes it hard not to laugh at his adventures.

Read more about Busy Bee Don

His favorite thing is climbing onto his foster's shoulder and cuddling in her hair LOL!

Don would especially love to be adopted with his buddy Mel, who makes a great partner for all that kitten fun, but he can also be adopted separately into the right home.

Don and the rest of the Busy Bees are available through our foster-to-adopt program, giving them a chance to settle into their new homes before the adoption is finalized.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Busy Bee Don fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed Aug 26

13. Busy Bee Mel

Kitten (3 months 28 days) · Male · Abyssinian / Mixed (short coat) · 26 mi from University Park

Meet Mel!

Mel is one of our adorable Busy Bees, a group of five kittens who aren't siblings but came together and quickly became their own little kitten family.

Mel is an incredibly sweet little boy with a gentle heart. He can be a little shy at first and needs some time to feel comfortable in a new place. But once Mel realizes he's safe, a completely different side of him comes out—he is an absolute love.

Read more about Busy Bee Mel

There's something especially endearing about the way Mel asks for affection. He'll quietly lean his whole little body into you for pets, and it's nearly impossible not to fall in love with him. ❤️ He just needs someone willing to give him that little bit of time to show them who he really is.

Mel would love to be adopted with one of his Busy Bee friends, Don—but he can also be adopted separately into the right home.

Mel and the rest of the Busy Bees are available through our foster-to-adopt program, giving them a chance to settle into their new homes before the adoption is finalized.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Busy Bee Mel fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed Aug 26

14. Atlas

Adult (3 years 5 months) · Male · Bombay / Mixed (short coat) · 26 mi from University Park

I'm Atlas, and I have been waiting for exactly this moment — the one where you find me.

I'm a big, handsome tuxedo boy, and I will tell you right away: I am not subtle about love. I don't make you wait for it, wonder about it, or earn it over months of careful patience. I just give it to you. Fully, warmly, without conditions.

Read more about Atlas

I know that might sound like the opposite of what you've been drawn to. But here's what I've learned about myself — I have a lot of love, and I want to share it with everyone in your world. The kids. The other cats. The quiet evenings on the couch. The busy Tuesday mornings. I fit into life rather than requiring life to rearrange itself around me, and there is something to be said for that kind of ease.

I am the cat who makes a full house feel complete.

If you already have cats at home, I'll win them over. If you have children, I'm already their best friend — I just haven't met them yet. If you've been waiting for a cat who will simply show up for you, every single day, without making you prove yourself first — that's what I do.

Some bonds ask you to be patient. Mine asks you to just let me in.

I'm Atlas. I already love you. I'm just waiting for you to come get me.

Some cats choose one person. Some choose everyone. The Sun shines on all.

Atlas is great with kids and other cats and will thrive in almost any loving home.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Atlas fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed May 31

15. Cali the Emperor

1 Year 5 Months · Female · Tortoiseshell / Mixed (short coat) · 26 mi from University Park

I'm Cali, and I've already decided I like you — I just haven't met you yet.

I'm a young calico girl with a patchwork coat and a personality to match: bold with the humans I love, and very, very clear about what I need in a home. What I need is you — just you.

I'm not a cat who shares well. I've tried the group living thing, and it turns out it's simply not for me. Other cats stress me out in a way I can't really manage, and I've learned I'm happiest — and most genuinely myself — when I'm the only cat in the home. Not because I'm broken. Because I know exactly who I am.

Read more about Cali the Emperor

And who I am, with the right human, is sweet. Affectionate. Present. The kind of cat who wants to be your cat, not one of many, not a background presence. Yours.

If you have a peaceful home without other cats, and you're looking for a real relationship — one where you become the whole world to someone small and colorful and completely devoted — I might be exactly what you've been thinking about.

I'm Cali. I'm ready to choose you.

PS Cali has room in her kingdom for humans. Other cats, not so much.

Cali needs to be the only cat in the home. She's not a good fit for multi-cat households, but in a one-cat home she truly shines.

  • No young kids
  • Only cat
  • No dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Cali the Emperor fromAzrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · listed May 31

16. Bitty

Adult (1 year 1 month) · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat) · 29 mi from University Park

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
Adopt Bitty fromStarfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · listed Oct 12

17. Jazz

Adult (1 year 1 month) · Female · Domestic Short Hair (short coat) · 29 mi from University Park

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
Adopt Jazz fromStarfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · listed Oct 12

18. Harry

Adult (2 years 1 month) · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat) · 29 mi from University Park

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
Adopt Harry fromStarfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · listed Oct 12

19. Pecan

Kitten (4 months 24 days) · Female · Domestic Short Hair (short coat) · 29 mi from University Park

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
Adopt Pecan fromStarfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · listed Sep 21

20. Biscuit

Kitten (4 months 10 days) · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat) · 29 mi from University Park

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
Adopt Biscuit fromStarfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · listed Sep 21

Rescues and shelters near University Park

The rescues with the most cats listed within 50 miles of University Park.

  • Forever Fortunate FelinesPalatine, IL · 165 cats · 50 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from Forever Fortunate Felines

    Thank you for your interest in Forever Fortunate Felines, a division of Fortunate Pooches and Lab Rescue. We are very happy to have the opportunity to match you with your purr-fect cat-panion! Once you complete the online application using the below link, you will be able to discuss and ask questions directly to the foster parent. We believe this is a big advantage to you as our organization is completely foster based, we really understand our cats personalities at a deep level. This helps to ensure a great match with you and your family. In order to get the process going, would you kindly fill out our detailed online application located here: https://www.petstablished.com/adoption_form/11683/generic Completing our online application does not commit you to adopt from our rescue. Rather it helps us to understand your requirements and match you with the best possible cat or kitten. Once you complete the application and it is approved, we can set up a meet and greet and if all works out, you may bring the kittens or cats home the same day. Please make sure to bring an adequately sized pet carrier with you to your meet and greet. We recommend a pet carrier which opens from the top as this is the easiest way to place a cat inside a carrier. If you do decide to adopt, we do expect you to take home your cat the same day as there are so many cats and kittens which need to be rescued from high kill shelters, we almost always rescue a new cat or kitten the very next day. I

  • Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL)Wheaton, IL · 51 cats · 34 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL)

    Read more about our adoption process on our website at: https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/ Adoption fees depend on the animal. Please see the pet’s biography for information on their adoption fee. Below is an overview of what you can expect during the pet adoption process: Step 1: Submit an online adoption application at https://www.arf-il.org/adopt/application/ Step 2: Our volunteers will review your application and reach out with a status. This step can take up to five business days. Step 3: If your application is approved you will be invited to meet with the cat or dog you are interested in at a mutually agreed upon time and location. Step 4: We’ll walk you through the benefits of adopting through A.R.F., then complete the adoption paperwork and collect the adoption fee. Then your new best friend is yours! Step 5: Complete required follow-ups such as obedience training or spay/neuter (if delayed due to medical reasons).

  • Aurora Animal Care and ControlAurora, IL · 24 cats · 40 mi from University Park
  • Whiskers of WinfieldCrown Point, IN · 15 cats · 20 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from Whiskers of Winfield

    $150 kittens $125 adults, contract signed, pets are spay/neutered, kittens are required to be spayed neuter and adoption fee includes this service. Includes distemper shot.

  • Azrael's Place NFPLyons, IL · 14 cats · 26 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from Azrael's Place NFP

    adoption application, phone interview, meet, home visit, 4-6 weeks acclimatization, final adoption. fees are $95 for adult, $125 for kittens

  • CatVando NFP CorpMaywood, IL · 12 cats · 31 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from CatVando NFP Corp

    Complete adoption application followed by reference check. $100 per kitten (2 for $175), $25 for senior cats, $75 adults under 6. All cats spayed/neutered, up to date on vacs, microchipped, flea and parasite free and healthy - sometimes special needs. We follow up 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months and 1 year and are always available for questions. At any time, we accept any of our adoptees back if the adoption doesn't work.

  • Starfish Animal RescuePlainfield, IL · 11 cats · 29 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from Starfish Animal Rescue

    Interested adopters need to complete a pre adoption application. This can be found on our website at www.starfishanimalrescue.com - we schedule meet and greets with approved applications only. We do home visits and vet checks. If you have questions about our adoption process please email us at starfishanimalrescuer@gmail.com

  • Cats-Are-Purrsons-TooChicago, IL · 11 cats · 38 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from Cats-Are-Purrsons-Too

    First you would call and have an interview over the phone. Then you would then come by and see the cats that we have available. We ask for a donation of half of the cat's medical bill.

  • Animal Welfare League of Illinois - Chicago RidgeChicago Ridge, IL · 8 cats · 18 mi from University Park
  • Feline Blessings Rescue & SanctuaryHobart, IN · 8 cats · 25 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from Feline Blessings Rescue & Sanctuary

    They will submit an application; a background check will be done. there is a contract to sign if approved, and then a $175 adoption fee will have to be paid.

  • 4 Paw Luv Rescue NFPMillbrook, IL · 8 cats · 45 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from 4 Paw Luv Rescue NFP

    1. We interview the potential adopters using our standard application with trained adoption counselors against our standard policies. Adopters must be able to provide sufficient housing, food, water and medical care for the animal. The home must also be a good fit for both the family and the animal being adopted. Counselors are trained to be able to look for good housing matches based on the personality of the animal to increase the chance of a successful adoption. 2. If the adopters seem like a good match and are capable of caring for an animal then we have them sign our standard contract. Our contract states that the adopters will care for the animal as per Illinois law. If they cannot keep the animal for any reason, they must contact us for return of the animal. The animal will be kept indoors. These are a few of the key points in the contract. 3. The adopters provide us with the adoption fee of $100 (unless it is a special situation in which case the adoption counselor has the ability to adjust the fee) which is the same for all cats, including kittens. 4. Adoptions are usually done same day and the adopters take their new family member home.

  • Kane County Animal ControlGeneva, IL · 3 cats · 44 mi from University Park
  • Whiskers & Tails Rescue FoundationChicago, IL · 1 cat · 33 mi from University Park
    How to adopt from Whiskers & Tails Rescue Foundation

    we will be working with local no kill resuces to admit any adoptable cats that we find when doing TNR

Adopting a cat in University Park

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.

Kittens go quickly, especially in spring and summer. If you've fallen for one, contact the rescue soon, and think about adopting two: young cats keep each other company and out of mischief.

Questions about adopting a cat in University Park

How many cats are up for adoption in University Park?

As of October 29, 2026, 331 cats and kittens are listed for adoption within 50 miles of University Park, Illinois, by 13 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a cat in University Park?

The rescues with the most cats near University Park right now are Forever Fortunate Felines (Palatine, IL), Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF-IL) (Wheaton, IL) and Aurora Animal Care and Control (Aurora, IL). Each cat above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Are there kittens for adoption in University Park?

Yes. 152 kittens are up for adoption within 50 miles of University Park.

How do I adopt a cat in University Park?

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.