Cats for Adoption in McDowell County, NC: 30 Cats Looking for a Home
By Cats of the Day · Updated

122 cats and kittens are waiting for homes at 4 rescues and shelters within 25 miles of the middle of McDowell County. Here are 30 of the newest arrivals, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.
Of the cats up for adoption within 25 miles of the middle of McDowell County, 59 kittens, 47 young cats, 11 adults and 1 senior. Most are domestic shorthairs and other mixed breeds, in every color and personality.
Not in McDowell County? Find cats near your zip code.
1. Missy
Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed


Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
2. Ralph
Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed


Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
3. Vermillion
Young · Female · Domestic Medium Hair / Mixed



Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
4. Willie
Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed



Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
5. India
Adult · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed


Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
6. Penny
Kitten · Female · Tabby (short coat)




Penny is a female grey tabby kitten,born on August 7, 2026. Penny is very cautious about new surroundings but loves to explore. She loves to be held like a baby and get head scratches. It takes her a little bit to get warmed up to you. She has beautiful coloring, silver tabby, and knows she is gorgeous. Very playful with the boys. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $75. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
7. Patrick
Kitten · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat)




Patrick is a male white-and-black kitten, born on August 7, 2026. Patrick is "all boy" just like his brother Johnny. They could roll around playing all day. He constantly wants to be on the move and just put on a show. He has beautiful coloring and long hair. Loves to eat. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $75. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
8. Johnny
Kitten · Male · Domestic Long Hair (short coat)




Johnny is a male grey long-haired kitten, born on August 7, 2026. He is hilarious and spunky. Always looking for adventure. Very playful and not scared of anything. He likes to be held like a baby (on his own terms) and constantly wants to be on the move. He is beautiful! Very majestic. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $200. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
9. Baby
Kitten · Female · Domestic Short Hair (short coat)


Baby is a female black-and-white kitten, born on August 7, 2026. She is tiny but mighty. She does not let her size keep her from standing up for herself around her big brothers. She will hiss at you and then come up to let you love her. She likes to explore but isn’t as rambunctious as her siblings. She likes to watch them until they attack. Before she was ever trapped at the Lake Lure Inn, Baby showed us her personality as a master observer. She watched the other kittens to see what happened to them before she would commit herself. The smartest of the bunch! Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $75.
Read more about Baby
This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
10. Jezebel
Senior · Female · Persian




Meet Jezebel, our beautiful 11-year-old Persian girl! This sweet senior has recently found herself in our care after her elderly owner was no longer able to provide for her. At 11 years old, Jezebel deserves a quiet, peaceful retirement home where she can be loved, spoiled, and properly cared for!Unfortunately, Jezebel came to us extremely matted and is scheduled for a sedated shave on Monday to get her comfortable again. We will be posting updated photos of this beautiful girl after her grooming!Before applying, please understand that Jezebel is NOT a low-maintenance cat!Persians require more specialized care than your average cat, especially as they enter their senior years.
Read more about Jezebel
Jezebel struggles to keep up with grooming herself, meaning regular brushing and professional grooming will be an absolute MUST! We honestly believe keeping her in a shorter haircut will be the most manageable and comfortable option for her moving forward.She will also need an adopter who understands that Persian cats can be prone to additional health concerns and potentially higher veterinary expenses. We want her next home to be her FOREVER home, with someone fully prepared for everything that comes with owning a senior Persian.Jezebel’s ideal home:* A quiet, calm environment where she can relax.* An only-pet household! Jezebel would do best being the only animal in the home, where she can enjoy all the peace, attention, and affection she deserves.* Someone experienced with Persians or willing to learn about their specific needs.* An adopter financially prepared for regular grooming and veterinary care.* Most importantly, someone committed to loving her through her golden years!Jezebel is considered a Hero Cat, and her adoption fee is $500. This higher fee helps us find an adopter prepared for her ongoing care while also allowing us to keep adoption fees for our other cats as low as possible. Our Hero Adoption Program helps us continue giving animals who are often overlooked the same chance at finding loving homes!Interested in giving Jezebel the retirement she deserves?Please submit an adoption application! Our kennel manager will review applications and reach out to potential adopters after going through them.Jezebel has already experienced a major change in her life, and our biggest priority is making sure her next chapter is filled with comfort, stability, and love. Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
11. Fitch
Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat)




Fitch is a neutered black cat, born on April 15, 2026. This handsome house panther did not trust easily at first. He is still a bit timid, but with time and patience, Fitch will steal your heart, especially when he sits on your lap and looks up with those big, loving eyes. He is a playful, curious boy who loves chasing toys and exploring. He is sweet, silly and will make you laugh at his antics. When playtime is over, he will gladly curl up for a lap snuggle. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $50. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment.
Read more about Fitch
To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
12. Garfield
Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair


If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoothills.org
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- Good with dogs
- House-trained
13. Skye
Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair (short coat)




Skye is a spayed female grey-and-white cat, born on September 2, 2024. Skye's home had a fire, and all residents are now homeless. Skye was an indoor/outdoor family pet but is adjusting well to indoor only. She has not been around children, but she has been around dogs and gets along with other cats. Skye is very friendly and calm. She's pretty quiet unless she wants to be petted, doesn't get on the furniture, isn't very playful. Loves to be petted and cuddled. Perfect lap size. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $25. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment.
Read more about Skye
To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
14. Juneau
Young · Female · Tabby (short coat)




Juneau is a female silver and black tabby, born on March 1, 2026. She was recently rescued as a stray, and we quickly found out what a sweet girl she is. Her foster mom has quite a few kittens and young cats & Juneau is not a fan of all the activity in the house. It is apparent that a quiet, peaceful home with a lap to snuggle on would be more her speed. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $50. The adoption fee is $50. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
15. Happy
Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat)




Happy is a neutered male black-and-white cat, born on April 15, 2026. . I love to sit on my foster mom's lap or lounge on the cat tree in the morning sun. Happy does have a bit of catitude when food or toys are involved. Playtime is a huge part of his day and Happy loves to chase a crinkle ball, spring or even a juice bottle cap like he is playing hockey. Once he decides you are a friend to trust, Happy is loving and a perfect sweetheart. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $50. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
16. Inga
Kitten · Female · Domestic Short Hair


If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoothills.org
- House-trained
17. Winston
Adult · Male · Domestic Short Hair




If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoothills.org
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
18. Hoss
Adult · Male · Domestic Short Hair




If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoothills.org
19. Dean
Kitten · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat)



Dean is a neutered male gray kitten, born on May 15, 2026. Chris and Dean are about as cuddly as they come. They are bonded and it would be best to adopt them together. They are very docile, great with other gentle animals, and would be great with young children. Indoor cats only! The adoption fee for both Chris and Dean is $115. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
20. Chris
Kitten · Male · Domestic Short Hair (short coat)




Chris is a neutered male gray-and-white kitten, born on May 15, 2026. Chris and Dean are about as cuddly as they come. They are bonded and it would be best to adopt them together. They are very docile, great with other gentle animals, and would be great with young children. Indoor cats only! The adoption fee for both Chris and Dean is $115. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
21. Adam
Young · Male · Tuxedo (short coat)




Adam is a neutered male Tuxedo cat, born on April 25, 2026. Adam is happy to be a part of whatever you are doing, as long as there is plenty of time for cuddles. He was the smallest of the litter but has a big personality. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $50. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
22. Suzie
Kitten · Female · Tortoiseshell / Mixed (short coat)




Suzie is a spayed female tortoiseshell cat, born on June 6, 2026. Rescued as a tiny bottle baby Suzie has made tremendous progress. Suzie is a wild child who loves to play, sprint, and then cuddle up on your neck. Suzie is ready for her furever home and is spayed and up to date on vaccines. She will do best in a home with another cat/cats. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $75. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
23. Milo
Kitten · Male · Tabby (short coat)




Milo is a male brown and white tabby, born on July 21, 2026. He has the cutest little face, including a distinctive smudge on his nose and matching white socks. He’s an absolute sweetheart who is already so trusting of people. He loves being right in the middle of whatever you’re doing, whether that’s checking out what's on the counter or chasing after his favorite toys. He’s got that perfect mix of high kitten curiosity and a super affectionate, cuddly side once he wears himself out. If you're looking for a playful, friendly little shadow to add some fun to your home, Milo is your guy! Indoor cat only! Adoption fee is $75.
Read more about Milo
This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
24. Stuart Wetherby
Kitten · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed


Puppies 6 months and under are typically $200 and dogs from 7 months to 6 years are typically $100.00. The adoption fee may be higher or lower than stated however, and is dependent on many factors including age, behavior, medical condition and demand. All dogs 7 years and older are free under our Saving Seniors program. We frequently run discount specials and occasionally a dog will be more than the stated fee.Most cats and kittens are $35.00, however there may be instances in which the fee is higher or lower, due to age, behavior, medical condition or demand. With felines, we always have an "Adopt one, bring another one home for free" adoption special!
25. Trixie
Adult · Female · Domestic Short Hair


If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoothills.org
26. Tabs
Kitten · Male · Domestic Short Hair



If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoothills.org
27. Oreo
Kitten · Female · Domestic Short Hair




If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoothills.org
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
28. Izzy
Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair



This is a courtesy post. Please do not contact Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue for information. Contact information is provided below.Izzy is a beautiful torbie who is approximately 6 months old. She showed up as a stray and the finder made an appointment to have her spayed. While recovering from surgery, she became very comfortable inside. She's negative for FIV etc., up to date on vaccinations, and spayed. She always greets the owners at the door, and is generous with her headbutts and purrs. She is litterbox trained and is really good with her claws. She rarely uses them during play. The owner is slowly introducing her to their dogs, but she's already pretty adjusted to barking.
Read more about Izzy
The owner will work with her more to make sure she's comfortable with a variety of situations for a potential adopter. Izzy is not much of a lap cat yet, but that may change as she continues to get comfortable indoors. She's incredibly affectionate and really enjoys being petted. She's great with children as well. She tolerates the owner's three year old carrying her around. If you are interested in Izzy, please email Rachel at rachelwhamrick@gmail.com
29. Lola
Young · Female · Tabby (short coat)




Lola is a small silver tabby, spayed, DOB Sept. 15, 2025. Lola was a very small cat, probably 8 months old, when she had kittens. She was a good mother and now that she has finished her motherhood duties, she has been spayed and is waiting for her forever home. She is lovely and tiny, easily passes for a kitten because of her size. She is loving and playful. Indoor cat only! The adoption fee is $25. This covers the cost of spay/neuter, PVR, Rabies, flea, tick, ear mite and worm treatment. To adopt, you need to first fill out an application. Go to:
https://rutherfordcountyhumanesociety.org/cat-adoption-application/
We are located in Western North Carolina. Optional transport is weekly. After your application is approved, we will contact you regarding cost and delivery if you so desire.
- Good with kids
- Good with cats
- House-trained
30. Kaspyn
Kitten · Female · Domestic Short Hair



If you are interested in adopting this animal please fill out an application at heartofthefoothills.org/adopt. You can email us at adopt@heartofthefoothills.org
- Good with cats
- House-trained
Rescues and shelters near McDowell County
The rescues with the most cats listed within 25 miles of the middle of McDowell County.
- Rutherford County Humane SocietyRutherfordton, NC · 43 cats
How to adopt from Rutherford County Humane Society
Complete and submit a dog or cat adoption application online from our Website. Our volunteers will then review the application, and contact the adoptee if approved. Then the adoptee will need to complete and submit the Pet Adoption Contract, and pay for the adoption.
- Heart of the Foothills Animal RescueRutherfordton, NC · 31 cats
How to adopt from Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue
An application is required and once it is processed and approved we will set up a time for the adopter to meet the pet, if the pet is finished with their vetting then we can finalize adoption or put the pet on hold and let the adopter know when the pet is ready. When we finalize adoption, the adopter will need to sign an adoption contract and a health disclaimer. We do ask that if the adopter decides that it is not working out that they bring the dog back to us so we can make sure the animal will go into a good home.
- Yancey County Humane SocietyBurnsville, NC · 28 cats
How to adopt from Yancey County Humane Society
There is an adoption Application/Questionairre and in some situations we require a meet and greet. Our fees vary by age.
- The Cats' Cradle of NCMorganton, NC · 20 cats
Cities and towns in McDowell County
Adopting a cat in McDowell County
Most rescues ask you to fill in an application, meet the cat, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip. Many are foster-based, so you'll often meet your cat in a volunteer's home rather than a shelter.
Senior cats are often the calmest companions and the slowest to find homes. If you'd like a settled, affectionate cat, ask the rescues about their older residents.
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 McDowell County
How many cats are up for adoption in McDowell County?
As of October 29, 2026, 122 cats and kittens are listed for adoption within 25 miles of the middle of McDowell County, North Carolina, by 4 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.
Where can I adopt a cat in McDowell County?
The rescues with the most cats near McDowell County right now are Rutherford County Humane Society (Rutherfordton, NC), Heart of the Foothills Animal Rescue (Rutherfordton, NC) and Yancey County Humane Society (Burnsville, NC). Each cat above has the rescue's phone number and website.
Are there kittens for adoption in McDowell County?
Yes. 59 kittens are up for adoption within 25 miles of the middle of McDowell County.
How do I adopt a cat in McDowell County?
Pick a cat and contact the rescue or shelter looking after them. Most ask you to fill in an application, meet the cat, and pay an adoption fee that usually covers spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a microchip.
Listings are updated daily. Rescues are responsible for their own listings; a cat may have been adopted since this page was updated.