Knoxville, TN

Adult Cats for Adoption in Knoxville, TN: 14 Grown-Up Cats Looking for a Home

Adult Cats up for adoption near Knoxville, TN

Rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Knoxville have 32 adult cats up for adoption. Here are the 14 newest, each with photos, their story and how to reach the rescue looking after them.

Adult cats usually wait longer for homes than kittens, but their personalities are already settled, so you know just what you're getting: a lap cat, a chatterbox or an independent explorer.

1. Sweet Pea

Adult · Female · Siamese (short coat) · 19 mi from Knoxville

Hi, my name is Sweet Pea. I’m a 5-year-old seal-point Siamese who had a pretty rough life so far. My mom died and my dad didn’t want me any more. He put me outside and I was living under the porch where I got into a tussle with something. I’m not sure what, but it bit me on the shoulder and it really hurt. It got infected, which hurt even more. At least my dad took me to the vet, but he left me there. I think that was for the best because the vet’s office was so nice. Everyone there petted me and loved on me and called SARG to rescue me! Now I’m in foster care looking for my forever home.
Things you should know about me: I love making biscuits, rubbing up against my person, and I’m quick to purr.

Read more about Sweet Pea

But I’m a little shy with new people. I spend my days watching YouTube for cats! And my nights sleeping under the covers with my foster mom! It keeps me warm and makes me feel safe. But I do like to chase a string toy now and again, and I’ll do just about anything for a treat! My fur is super soft and the patches the doctor had to shave off to make me better are growing in nicely. I’m a little nervous with sudden movements and loud noises, so I would probably do best in a home without children or dogs. If you think you’re the right fit, fill out an application. I’d love to meet you.
Adoption information at https://shelteranimalsrescue.org/adopt

  • No young kids
  • Good with cats
  • No dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Sweet Pea fromShelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · listed Oct 26

2. Daphne

Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 22 mi from Knoxville

Daphne Daphne is one of the adorable tuxie girls from the Frasier and Friends litter! While her brothers have already been adopted, Daphne is still waiting for her forever family to find her. She can be adopted with her sister Roz or separately—whatever home is the perfect fit for this sweet girl! Could Daphne be the newest addition to your family?For more information on Daphne, send Jenn a text at 865-599-7304 and apply at maarcadopt.org/adoption-application

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Daphne fromMaryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · listed Oct 21

3. Maria

Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 22 mi from Knoxville

Meet Maria! Maria is a sweet tabby mama who has officially finished raising her kittens and is ready for something she’s been waiting for… her turn to be loved! She spent her time being the best mama she could be, caring for her babies and making sure they were ready for their next chapter. Now it’s Maria’s turn to have a family of her own. ❤️She’s patiently waiting for someone to see what a wonderful girl she is and give her all the love, attention, and spoiling she deserves.Could you be the person Maria has been waiting for?For more information on Maria, contact Ellery via text at ‪(629) 777-6850‬ and apply at maarcadopt.org/adoption-application

Adopt Maria fromMaryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · listed Sep 24

4. Gnocchi

Young · Male · Domestic Long Hair (long coat) · 11 mi from Knoxville

Meet Gnocchi! Gnocchi is a 7 month old long-haired gray tabby M (DOB about 4/1/26). This little guy is full of energy and confidence. When he was introduced to his foster home, he immediately went into the investigative mode, checking out the other cats, greeting them to show he was not intimidated. He wants to be by his humans all the time. Prepare to be entertained by a big personality! He LOVES everyone as soon as he meets them. He is VERY playful and active. He loves to play with toys or other cats and is never bored. He likes to be held and to snuggle. He gets along well with cats, and we think he'd be great with dogs and kids.

Read more about Gnocchi

He's negative for feline leukemia and aids, had all three distemper and the rabies vaccines, been wormed, had revolution for fleas and worms, and been vet checked and neutered. Preference will be given to local adopters (whom we define as living within a 3 hour radius of Knoxville) who have a young playmate/companion for the kitten or are willing to adopt a pair. If interested in this cutie pie, please contact Holly at 865-671-4564 (land line) or hhfrey1@tds.net.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Gnocchi fromThe Stray ConnectionKnoxville, TN · listed Sep 9

5. Mr. Kitty

Young · Male · Tabby (short coat) · 5 mi from Knoxville

URGENT!!!
Hi, I'm Mr. Kitty.
My story didn't start out easy. I was found as a tiny kitten, all alone, with no one to look after me. I wasn't healthy, and for a while it looked like I might even lose an eye. It was a scary way to begin.
But then some wonderful people gave me a chance. With their care and the help of a great vet, I made it through. I'm in perfect health now — both eyes, a strong body, and a heart that never stopped hoping for something good.The family who saved me loved me well, and my dad has taken such good care of me. But now he's the one who needs care. He has a heart transplant coming up soon, and he's scared and worried — not just for himself, but for me too.

Read more about Mr. Kitty

He wants to know I'll be safe and loved while he focuses everything he has on getting well. That's why I need to find my new home now, before his surgery, so his heart can be fully on healing, not on worrying about me.
I promise I'm easy to love. I'm a handsome herringbone tabby with the cutest little spots on my belly — my family always said I was one of a kind, and I like to believe them. I'm a cuddle bug through and through — happiest curled up on a warm lap, soaking in every bit of affection I can get. I'm a perfect gentleman, gentle and easygoing with everyone I meet. I love people, I love dogs, and I especially love other kitties — I'd give anything to have a friend to share my days with.
I've already come so far from where I started. All I want now is a soft place to land — a family, a friend, and a lap that's mine. I know it's out there. I just haven't found it yet. And right now, my dad needs to know I'll find it soon.
Please, if you can open your heart and your home, reach out today. Time is short, and so is his. I've already come so far from where I started. All I want now is a soft place to land — a family, a friend, and a lap that's mine. I know it's out there. I just haven't found it yet.
If you think it could be you, I'll be waiting.
Love,Mr. Kitty
Unless otherwise noted, all Almost Home cats are healthy, spayed/neutered, up-to-date on vaccinations, and flea & tick preventative.
If you would like to meet your new best friend, contact the Adoption Coordinator at info@almosthometn.org or 865-236-0830. To fill out an application, go to www.almosthometn.org. If you cannot get it to work, let us know and we will email it to you in a different format.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Mr. Kitty fromAlmost Home Animal RescueMaryville, TN · listed Jul 24

6. Gwendolyn

Young · Female · Domestic Medium Hair / Mixed · 22 mi from Knoxville

Meet Gwendolyn, a beautiful 1-year-old tabby with a heart full of love and a whole lot to say! If you're looking for a cat who will happily chat with you throughout the day, Gwendolyn is your girl. Whether she's greeting you when you get home, reminding you it's mealtime, or simply sharing her thoughts, she's always ready for a conversation.Beyond her talkative personality, Gwendolyn is incredibly sweet and affectionate. She loves spending time with her people and will happily keep you company while filling your home with purrs and adorable commentary.If you've always wanted a best friend who listens, responds, and never lets the conversation get boring, Gwendolyn is ready to talk her way right into your heart!

Adopt Gwendolyn fromMaryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · listed Jul 19

7. Ferrari

Young · Male · Russian Blue / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Knoxville

Ferrari is a handsome short-haired Russian blue mix male about kitten about 6 months old (DOB about 5/1/26). He was hit by a car and turned into a local vet. So, we gave him a fancy car name, because is a fun, active, fancy kitten. He LOVES everyone as soon as he meets them. He is VERY playful and active. He loves to play with toys or other cats and is never bored. He likes to be held and to snuggle. He gets along well with cats, and I think he'd be great with dogs and kids. He's negative for feline leukemia and aids, had all three distemper and the rabies vaccines, been wormed, had advantage for fleas, and been vet checked and neutered.

Read more about Ferrari

Preference will be given to local adopters who have a young playmate/companion for the kitten or are willing to adopt a pair. We do not adopt kittens to homes where they will be a solo pet. If interested in this cutie pie, please contact Holly at 865-671-4564 (land line) or hhfrey1@tds.net

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Ferrari fromThe Stray ConnectionKnoxville, TN · listed Jul 15

8. Gibson

Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Knoxville

Gibson is a cute short-haired gray tabby male kitten about 6 months old (DOB about 4/15/26). He demands attention and is all sass and confidence. He's a world class wrestler with his kitten buddies and adapts to new situations really fast. He's ready for his forever home so he can settle in and bring joy to his own family. He LOVES everyone as soon as he meets them. He is VERY playful and active. He loves to play with toys or other cats and is never bored. He likes to be held and to snuggle. He gets along well with cats, and I think he'd be great with dogs and kids. He's negative for feline leukemia and aids, had all three distemper and the rabies vaccines, been wormed, had advantage for fleas, and been vet checked, microchipped, and neutered.

Read more about Gibson

Preference will be given to local adopters who have a young playmate/companion for the kitten or are willing to adopt a pair. We do not adopt kittens to homes where they will be a solo pet. If interested in this cutie pie, please contact Holly at 865-671-4564 (land line) or hhfrey1@tds.net.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Gibson fromThe Stray ConnectionKnoxville, TN · listed Jul 10

9. Chili

Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair (short coat) · 11 mi from Knoxville

Chili is a cute short-haired silver tabby female with white feel about 6 months old (DOB about 5/1/26). She has big, soulful eyes. She still suckles (nurses) on cat beds and loves to play with crinkle balls. She's a lap cat. She LOVES everyone as soon as she meets them. She loves to snuggle and cuddle in your lap. She is VERY playful and active. She loves to play with toys or other cats and is never bored. She gets along well with other cats, and we think she'd be great with dogs and kids. She's negative for feline leukemia and aids, had all three distemper and the rabies vaccines, been wormed, had advantage for fleas, and been vet checked and spayed.

Read more about Chili

Preference will be given to local adopters who have a young playmate/companion for the kitten or are willing to adopt a pair. We do not adopt kittens to homes where they will be a solo pet. If interested in this cutie pie, please contact Holly at 865-671-4564 (Land line) or hhfrey1@tds.net.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Chili fromThe Stray ConnectionKnoxville, TN · listed Jul 4

10. Ninja

Adult · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 22 mi from Knoxville

Meet Ninja, the Street Cat Turned House Panther! Ninja has traded life on the streets for the comforts of indoor living, and this handsome house panther is ready to find a forever home! Despite his tough-guy name, Ninja is actually a big snuggly sweetheart who loves affection and being close to his people. Ninja is FIV and FeLV positive, which means he needs a home as an only cat or with other FeLV+ cats. The good news? He can still live happily alongside other pets!This former street cat has discovered the good life, and now he's looking for someone to share it with. Could you give Ninja the safe, cozy home—and all the snuggles—he's been waiting for? For more information about Ninja, contact Ellery at (629) 777-6850 or apply at maarcadopt.org/adoption-application.

  • House-trained
Adopt Ninja fromMaryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · listed Jul 1

11. Key / Peele

Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 22 mi from Knoxville

Meet Key, a playful and charming kitten named after the hilarious comedian and actor Keegan-Michael Key! Just like his namesake, Key has a big personality and knows how to keep everyone entertained. He’s curious, silly, and always ready to turn an ordinary moment into a fun adventure.Key loves exploring, playing with toys, and showing off his kitten antics. Whether he’s chasing after his brother Peele, discovering something new, or making you laugh with his goofy personality, Key brings joy wherever he goes. Beneath all the fun is a sweet boy who loves attention and is ready to be someone’s new best friend.If you’re looking for a kitten who will keep you smiling with his playful spirit and lovable personality, Key is ready to bring the comedy and cuddles to your home!

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Key / Peele fromMaryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · listed Jun 30

12. Ken

Adult · Male · Siamese / Snowshoe / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Knoxville

Ken is a handsome lilac-pt Siamese Snowshoe mix male about 1 year old (DOB about 7/1/25). He was brought to a local veterinarian by someone who apparently found him and thought he needed to be humanely euthanized. He was extremely emaciated and dehydrated and appeared to have an injured paw. The doctor thought she could get him healthy again and asked the Stray Connection to sponsor his recovery and routine vetting. He is doing well now and is ready for a new home. He does still limp a bit but has had physical therapy that helped. He is initially a bit cautious of people (and probably rightly so, given his story), but he warms up super fast.

Read more about Ken

He should do well with cats, older children, and nice dogs. Ken is negative for feline leukemia and aids, current on his distemper had his first distemper vaccine, been wormed, treated for fleas, vet checked and neutered. If interested in this cutie pie, please contact Holly at 865-671-4564 (land line) or hhfrey1@tds.net

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Ken fromThe Stray ConnectionKnoxville, TN · listed Jun 23

13. Roomba

Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat) · 11 mi from Knoxville

Roomba is a handsome buff orange kitten, about 7 months old (DOB about 3/20/26), with a heart as warm as his golden coat. Although he had a rough start in life, this resilient little guy has made a complete recovery and has blossomed into a happy, healthy kitten who has learned that people can be trusted, loved, and he loves them. Roomba's favorite thing in the world is playtime. Whether he's chasing toys, wrestling with feline friends, or engaging in play with his people, he's always ready for fun and adventure. Bonus...he's quite the entertainer. Once he's worn himself out, his second favorite activity is finding a warm lap where he can curl up and drift off to sleep.

Read more about Roomba

One of the sweetest things about Roomba is how excited he gets when his humans come home. He'll happily greet you at the door, ready for attention, playtime, and cuddles. Roomba is a social butterfly who gets along wonderfully with cats, kittens, dogs, and people of all ages. His affectionate personality, playful spirit, and loving nature make him a perfect addition to almost any home. If you're looking for a kitten who will make you laugh, keep you entertained, and then snuggle up for a cozy nap, Roomba might just be your perfect match. Roomba cannot be a solo pet. He needs an active feline or canine companion that will be ready to go, go, go when he wants to play. ❤️ Roomba is negative for feline leukemia and aids, had all three distemper and the rabies vaccines, been wormed, treated for fleas, and been vet checked and neutered. If interested in this cutie pie, please contact Holly at 865-671-4564 (land line) or hhfrey1@tds.net

  • No young kids
  • Good with cats
  • Good with dogs
  • House-trained
Adopt Roomba fromThe Stray ConnectionKnoxville, TN · listed Jun 8

14. Chuck

Adult · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 22 mi from Knoxville

Meet Chuck, a handsome 7-year-old buff-and-white gentleman who's all about the laid-back life! This sweet, easygoing guy loves lounging by your side, soaking up affection, and enjoying the simple things.Chuck is a special-needs kitty with hyperthyroidism and kidney disease. His thyroid medication is affordable and easy to administer (just rub it into his ear twice a day!), and he needs a special diet to help manage his kidney disease.The best part? Chuck gets along with both cats and dogs! He's looking for a loving family willing to see past his medical needs and give him the cozy home and companionship he deserves.Could you be the one to give this sweet boy his happily-ever-after?For more information, text Ellery at 629-777-6850 or apply at www.maarcadopt.org/adopt.

  • Good with kids
  • Good with cats
  • Good with dogs
Adopt Chuck fromMaryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · listed May 31

Why adopt an adult cat in Knoxville

An adult cat's personality is fully formed, so the rescue can tell you how they are with people, other pets and busy households. Many have lived in foster homes and are used to family life.

Grown cats are calmer and need less supervision than kittens, which suits people who work long hours or have young children.

Rescues with adult cats near Knoxville

Questions about adopting adult cats in Knoxville

How many adult cats are up for adoption in Knoxville?

As of October 29, 2026, rescues and shelters within 25 miles of Knoxville, Tennessee, have 32 adult cats up for adoption. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt an adult cat in Knoxville?

The rescues with the most adult cats near Knoxville right now are Maryville Alcoa Animal Rescue Center (Maryville, TN), The Stray Connection (Knoxville, TN) and Shelter Animals Rescue Group (Oak Ridge, TN). Each cat above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Should I adopt an adult cat or a kitten?

It depends on your home. An adult cat's personality is already known and they need less supervision; kittens need more time and training but grow up with your family. The rescues can help you find the right match.

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