Cats for Adoption in Des Moines, IA: 14 Cats Looking for a Home
By Cats of the Day · Updated



100 cats and kittens are waiting for homes at 4 rescues and shelters within 100 miles of Des Moines. Here are 14 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 100 miles of Des Moines, 30 kittens, 31 young cats and 27 adults. Most are domestic shorthairs and other mixed breeds, but you'll also find Siamese cats.
Not in Des Moines? Find cats near your zip code.
1. Dale
Young (1 month 20 days) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines


Dale is the wild child of the bunch! She is sweet, adorable, and has A LOT of personality! This girl is always on the go and absolutely determined to investigate everything around her. Whether she’s climbing into a drawer, hiding in the laundry basket, wrestling with her siblings, or zooming around the room, Dale is always finding something to get into!
She’s curious, playful, energetic, and just a little bit crazy—in the absolute best way! She will keep you laughing and wondering what she’ll get into next.
Read more about Dale
Please Note: This kitten is in foster care and is not available for meet and greets at this time. We have an estimated date of Nov. 13th that Dale will be ready. This date is subject to change. Once you are approved to adopt, you can put down the adoption fee to reserve her. We will communicate with you throughout the adoption process.
- Good with cats
- House-trained
2. Handsome
5 Months 20 Days · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines


Meet Handsome!
Life has been a little overwhelming lately for Handsome. After spending time outdoors and recently being reunited with his brother, Sandy, at Safe Haven, this sweet orange-and-white boy is still learning that people can be kind and that he's finally safe.
Right now, Handsome is feeling scared and unsure in his new surroundings. He prefers to watch the world from a cozy hiding spot while he builds confidence at his own pace. Beneath that nervous exterior is a gentle kitten who simply needs patience, understanding, and a family willing to let him come out of his shell when he's ready.
Read more about Handsome
With time, love, and a quiet home, Handsome has all the potential to blossom into a wonderful companion. Every small step he takes is a victory, and there is something incredibly special about earning the trust of a kitten who is learning that the world isn't such a scary place after all. If you're looking for a rewarding friendship and have room in your heart for a shy little guy, Handsome may be the perfect match.
Please Note: This kitten is in foster care and is not available for meet and greets at this time. We have an estimated date of 10/30 that Handsome will be ready. This date is subject to change. Once you are approved to adopt, you can put down the adoption fee to reserve Handsome. We will communicate with you throughout the adoption process.
- House-trained
3. Aly
Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines





Aly is not currently up for adoption at our shelter - instead we are helping her owner, Maite, by listing her as a Courtesy Listing in hopes we can help find someone that will welcome Aly into their home! Maite's (owner) contact info is down below for anyone potentially interested.
Read more about Aly
Meet this sweet 8-year-old tabby girl who is ready to fill someone’s home with love and companionship. She’s friendly, affectionate, and ready to be someone’s special girl! She is spayed and up to date on all vaccinations and heartworm and tick prevention, so she’s all set for her next chapter. She would thrive best in a calm, loving home without young children or herding dogs where she can feel safe, relaxed, and cherished. If you’re looking for a wonderful feline companion to love for years to come, she may be the perfect addition to your family!
Maite Vazquez
Phone: 563-468-8077
Email: maite_vazquez@ymail.com
- House-trained
4. Wolf
Young (1 month 11 days) · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Tabby / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines


Wolf
Don't let his wild name fool you. Wolf is an affectionate gray tabby boy who is much more interested in snuggles than stalking the wilderness. This playful kitten loves pouncing on toys, wrestling with his feline friends, and showing off his curious nature. When playtime is over, Wolf is happiest curled up in a warm lap, soaking up all the love and attention he can get. With his handsome striped coat and sweet personality, he's sure to win hearts wherever he goes.
Read more about Wolf
Please Note: This kitten is in foster care and is not available for meet and greets at this time. We have an estimated date of 11/13 that he will be ready. This date is subject to change. Once you are approved to adopt, you can put down the adoption fee to reserve Wolf. We will communicate with you throughout the adoption process.
- Good with cats
- House-trained
5. Punky aka Esme
3 Years · Female · Tabby / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines


Meet Punky!
Punky is the sweetest mama cat who was found raising her babies outside. A caring neighbor got her and the babies into Safe Haven as soon as space opened up.
This tabby sweetheart is now comfortably raising her babies in a fantastic (and warm and dry) foster home. She is a lover and deserves the best home!
Once she has had time to care for her babies and wean them, she will be spayed and available adoption. It won't be long now before she can move into her forever home and never have to worry about surviving the weather ever again!
Read more about Punky aka Esme
Please Note: This cat is in foster care and is not available for meet and greets at this time. We have an estimated time frame towards the end of Nov when we think she will be ready. This date is subject to change. Once you are approved to adopt, you can put down the adoption fee to reserve Punky. We will communicate with you throughout the adoption process.
- House-trained
6. Sandy
5 Months 7 Days · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Tabby / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines


Meet Sandy!
Sandy is a handsome muted orange kitten with a heart as warm as his sunny coat. Though he was born outdoors, this little guy has quickly discovered that the good life includes soft beds, full bowls, and lots and lots of love!
Sandy is a total attention seeker in the best possible way. He absolutely loves pets, cuddles, and being around people, and he'll happily soak up every bit of affection you're willing to give. Whether you're relaxing on the couch or moving around the house, Sandy is always ready to be your cheerful little sidekick.
Read more about Sandy
He's also very cat-friendly and enjoys making feline friends, so he could be a wonderful addition to a home with another friendly cat. Playful, curious, and full of kitten energy, Sandy loves exploring, chasing toys, and turning everyday moments into adventures.
After a start in life outdoors, Sandy is ready to leave those days behind and find a forever family who will give him the love, comfort, and fun he deserves. In return, he'll provide endless entertainment, companionship, and plenty of purrs.
If you're looking for a sweet, affectionate kitten who will brighten every day, Sandy is ready to wiggle his way into your heart and home!
- House-trained
7. Muldoon
Adult (2 years 1 month) · Male · Tabby / Mixed (short coat) · 83 mi from Des Moines




Looking for a large, fluffy best friend? Muldoon may be the perfect match for you! This handsome guy is as sweet as he is big. Relaxed, easygoing, and always ready for attention, Muldoon loves spending his days lounging near his favorite people and soaking up all the pets he can get. With his luxurious coat and impressive size, he’s like a real-life teddy bear and makes an ideal cuddle companion.
Read more about Muldoon
Muldoon is diabetic and requires daily insulin injections, but don’t let that discourage you. He handles his care like a champ and continues to enjoy a happy, comfortable life. Safe Haven will work closely with potential adopters to ensure they understand his care routine and feel confident meeting his needs. We are also happy to discuss ways we may be able to support his ongoing care in the future.
If you’re looking for a gentle, affectionate companion with plenty of love to give, Muldoon is ready to find a home that will cherish him as much as he deserves. ❤️
Please Note: Muldoon is in foster care and is not available to be seen at the shelter at this time. Once you are approved to adopt, we can set up a meet and greet for him, and you can put down the adoption fee to reserve him. We will communicate with you throughout the adoption process.
- Good with cats
- House-trained
- Special needs
8. Buttons
3 Months 19 Days · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Tabby / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines




Meet Buttons!
Buttons is a sweet girl with a gentle soul and the most adorable, curious eyes. Found as a stray, this little lady has come a long way and is ready to find a loving home of her own.
At first, Buttons can be a bit shy and reserved as she takes time to get comfortable in new surroundings. Once she realizes she's safe and loved, her playful personality begins to shine. She enjoys chasing toys, exploring her surroundings, and showing off her kitten energy during playtime.
Read more about Buttons
Buttons is the perfect combination of gentle and fun-loving. She would thrive with a patient family willing to let her settle in at her own pace and watch her confidence bloom. In return, she'll reward you with sweet companionship, playful antics, and endless charm.
If you're looking for a beautiful kitten with a tender heart and a playful spirit, Buttons might just be the perfect addition to your family. ❤️
- House-trained
9. Reese Whiskerspoon
3 Months 9 Days · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Tabby / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines


Meet Reese Whiskerspoon!
With her stunning tabby coat and soulful eyes, Reese Whiskerspoon is a true beauty who's already shown just how resilient she can be. This sweet girl was found as a stray and had a rough start to life. When she arrived in foster care, she was battling dirty ears and multiple ear infections, but she's been receiving the care she needs and is making great progress on her journey to good health.
Read more about Reese Whiskerspoon
Despite everything she's been through, Reese has remained a gentle and loving kitty. She's learning what it means to be safe, cared for, and cherished, and her personality grows brighter every day. As she continues to heal, she's looking ahead to the next chapter of her life: finding a forever family who will give her the love and security she deserves.
This brave little girl is sure to steal hearts wherever she goes. ❤️✨
- House-trained
10. Nora
Adult (8 years 1 month) · Female · Domestic Long Hair / Calico / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines





Meet Nora
This beautiful long-haired calico girl may be a little spunky, but given what she's been through, we think she's earned that right.
Nora's story began when she appeared as a stray, carrying more than just the struggles of life on the streets. She arrived with a wound on her back, a heavily matted coat, serious infections, and signs of malnourishment. The family who found her wanted to help but were unable to provide the care she desperately needed, so they reached out to Safe Haven.
Read more about Nora
Despite everything she has endured, Nora's spirit shines through. Beneath her cautious demeanor is a resilient little fighter who deserves the chance to experience love, comfort, and security. We are committed to standing by her side every step of the way, celebrating every milestone, every ounce gained, and every moment of trust she shares with us.
Nora's road to recovery has taken some time, but she is finally safe, warm, and cared for. We can't wait to watch her transform from a survivor into a beloved companion, and we know her best days are still ahead of her. ❤️
- Good with cats
- House-trained
11. Amanda
Female · Domestic Short Hair · 83 mi from Des Moines




Amanda is not currently up for adoption at our shelter - instead we are helping her owner, Jenny, by listing her as a Courtesy Listing in hopes we can help Jenny find someone that will welcome Amanda into their home! Jenny's contact info is down below for anyone potentially interested.
Meet Amanda.
Read more about Amanda
Life hasn't been easy for this sweet girl. We don't know exactly what happened to her before she came into our care, but at some point, she suffered severe trauma that left her with a significant pelvic injury. She's also undergone a partial tail amputation. Despite everything she's endured, Amanda has remained one of the gentlest, most loving souls I've ever met.
One of my favorite things about Amanda is that she often chooses to spend time with my 4- and 6-year-old while they're busy playing veterinarian. She happily sits through all the "checkups" and soaks up every bit of attention. It says so much about her gentle, trusting personality.
While she moves a little slower than most cats, she's surprisingly mobile. She can climb onto chairs for a cozy nap, uses the litter box perfectly, and gets along wonderfully with other cats.
Amanda's disabilities don't define her. If you can look beyond her physical challenges, you'll discover an incredibly affectionate companion with so much love to give.
The only reason I'm looking for the perfect home for Amanda is because she deserves more one-on-one attention than I can provide. As a single parent with multiple pets, it's difficult to give her the lap time she craves. She would thrive in a single-story home where she wouldn't need to navigate stairs to reach her litter box, food, or favorite resting spots.
There is absolutely no rush—Amanda is safe, loved, and welcome to stay with us until the perfect family comes along.
If you think you might be the person Amanda has been waiting for, I'd love for you to reach out and schedule a time to meet this incredible girl. I have a feeling she'll steal your heart just like she stole mine.
Jennifer Lewis
email: jlew2203@gmail.com
Phone/Text: 319-430-1997
12. Sweet Pea
4 Years 7 Months · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Calico / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines


Sweet Pea
Sweet Pea is as lovely as her name suggests. This beautiful calico girl came to our shelter with two feline family members after their owner experienced significant life changes. They were lovingly taken in by a relative, but unfortunately circumstances have made it impossible for them to continue caring for the cats.
Read more about Sweet Pea
Sweet Pea is a sweet, affectionate companion who enjoys attention and spending time with the people she loves. With her striking calico coat and gentle personality, she has a way of winning hearts wherever she goes. She is looking for a family that will give her the stability, love, and comfort she deserves. If you're searching for a loyal and loving friend, Sweet Pea may be the perfect addition to your home.
❤️ These three cats have known love and companionship throughout their lives and are now hoping for a second chance at a forever home. While they can be adopted separately, they all deserve families who will appreciate their sweet personalities and the love they have to give.
- Good with cats
- House-trained
13. Lola
Young (6 months) · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Calico / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines


Please Note: This kitten is in foster care.
Lola has already come a long way. Found as a frightened feral stray who thought everything (and everyone!) was scary, she's learned that people aren't so bad, especially when they bring food.
Read more about Lola
Lola is still a cautious girl who prefers a quiet home, maybe with another cat friend to show her the ropes. She needs time to adjust to new people, sounds, and experiences. When life feels overwhelming, she'll find a cozy hiding spot and wait for things to settle down. What Lola needs most is a patient person willing to let her move at her own pace. Give her some time, reassurance, and plenty of TLC, and you'll discover a loyal best friend hiding behind those beautiful, shy eyes.
Since Lola came to us as a frightened stray, she can be cautious and takes time to build trust with new people and environments. Safe Haven will work closely with interested adopters and her foster family to create the best transition plan for Lola's unique needs. Because her comfort and long-term success are our top priorities, her adoption date is currently TBD while we work to find the right match and ensure a smooth, positive transition into her forever home.
- House-trained
14. Turshi
8 Years 3 Months · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 83 mi from Des Moines









Meet Turshi!
Turshi is an active, silly, and photogenic boy who is ready to become the absolute king of your castle! He is a big personality in a stunning package, looking for a home where he can be the center of attention.
His Perfect Home
Pet Status: While he has lived with other pets, Turshi would ideally be your sole pet. He loves to be the boss and prefers not to share the spotlight!
Outdoor Amenities: He loves birdwatching from a secure deck and exploring a safe, fenced backyard (he’ll head right back to the door when he's done sniffing).
Read more about Turshi
Daily Essentials: A steady supply of scratching posts (essential for his "feed me now" morning antics) and soft blankets for making biscuits.
Diet & Habits
Excellent Eater: Loves wet or dry food, but salmon and seafood Churu treats will make him run to you!
Water Quirks: He likes to play in his water after drinking, so a heavy bowl on a tray is his preferred setup.
Litter Box: Perfect habits—no worries here!
Why You’ll Love Him
Turshi is a wonderful mix of independent explorer and ultimate cuddle bug. He will clearly communicate when he wants love, drag his favorite rainbow toy from room to room, and keep you thoroughly amused before settling in for a warm snuggle on the sofa.
Ready to meet your new best friend? Apply to adopt Turshi today!
- House-trained
Rescues and shelters near Des Moines
The rescues with the most cats listed within 100 miles of Des Moines.
- Ames Animal ServicesAmes, IA · 33 cats · 32 mi from Des Moines
How to adopt from Ames Animal Services
n/a
- Marion County Humane SocietyKnoxville, IA · 32 cats · 30 mi from Des Moines
How to adopt from Marion County Humane Society
approved application $150.00 adoption fee for dogs/puppies $65.00 adoption fee for cats/kittens
- Safe Haven of Iowa CountyWilliamsburg, IA · 24 cats · 83 mi from Des Moines
How to adopt from Safe Haven of Iowa County
Adopters must fill out an application and be approved. Appointment is made to meet/pick up the pet. Adoption fee is returned if the adopter notifies us the adoption in not working and returns the pet within two weeks.
- Cedar Valley Pit Bull RescueWaterloo, Ia · 11 cats · 89 mi from Des Moines
How to adopt from Cedar Valley Pit Bull Rescue
puppies are $350.00, adults $300.00, we have a contract with each adoption. , We go over apps, do back ground checks and home visits, we talk with the people and do vet references.
Adopting a cat in Des Moines
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.
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 Des Moines
How many cats are up for adoption in Des Moines?
As of October 22, 2026, 100 cats and kittens are listed for adoption within 100 miles of Des Moines, Iowa, by 4 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a cat in Des Moines?
The rescues with the most cats near Des Moines right now are Ames Animal Services (Ames, IA), Marion County Humane Society (Knoxville, IA) and Safe Haven of Iowa County (Williamsburg, IA). Each cat above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there kittens for adoption in Des Moines?
Yes. 30 kittens are up for adoption within 100 miles of Des Moines.
How do I adopt a cat in Des Moines?
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 from RescueGroups.org, updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a cat may have been adopted since this page was updated.

