Tennessee

Cats for Adoption in Sweetwater, TN: 20 Cats Looking for a Home

Daphne, up for adoption near Sweetwater, TN

138 cats and kittens are waiting for homes at 8 rescues and shelters within 50 miles of Sweetwater. 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 Sweetwater, 22 kittens, 43 young cats, 11 adults and 3 seniors. Most are domestic shorthairs and other mixed breeds, but you'll also find Bombay and Russian Blue cats.

1. Daphne

Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 23 mi from Sweetwater

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

2. Maria

Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 23 mi from Sweetwater

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

3. Gwendolyn

Young · Female · Domestic Medium Hair / Mixed · 23 mi from Sweetwater

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

4. Ninja

Adult · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 23 mi from Sweetwater

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

5. Key / Peele

Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 23 mi from Sweetwater

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

6. Chuck

Adult · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed · 23 mi from Sweetwater

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

7. Miko

Senior · Male · Domestic Long Hair / Mixed · 23 mi from Sweetwater

Meet Miko At 11.5 years young, Miko is a stunning long-haired black cat with a heart just as beautiful as his fluffy coat. This sweet senior gentleman is incredibly friendly and loves nothing more than being close to his people—he’s the kind of cat who will happily curl up in your lap and keep you company for hours.Miko is FIV+, but don’t let that scare you—he is a healthy, happy boy who can live a full, wonderful life. He can do well as a solo cat, with other easygoing cats he gets along with, or with fellow FIV+ friends.If you’re looking for a calm, loving companion who will bring warmth and comfort to your home, Miko is your guy. He’s ready to spend his golden years exactly where he belongs—right in your lap. For more information on Miko, text Ellery at 629-777-6850 or apply at www.maarcadopt.org/adopt.

  • House-trained
Adopt Miko fromMaryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · listed May 15

8. Sweet Pea

Adult · Female · Siamese (short coat) · 27 mi from Sweetwater

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

9. Amelia Bedelia

Kitten · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Tabby / Mixed (short coat) · 27 mi from Sweetwater

Meet Amelia Bedelia!
At just 10 weeks old (as of 10/8), Amelia Bedelia is already an expert at two very important things: playing hard and purring even harder! This adorable gray and black tabby is a little bundle of kitten energy who is always ready for her next adventure.
Amelia Bedelia loves to play, explore, and make the most of every moment. And when playtime is over, she’s happy to settle in and turn on her purr motor. She’s an absolute purr machine!
With her sweet personality, playful spirit, and irresistible tabby good looks, Amelia Bedelia is sure to bring plenty of fun, love, and laughter to her forever home. ❤️
If you’re looking for a playful little companion with a whole lot of purr-sonality, Amelia Bedelia may be your girl!
Adoption information at https://shelteranimalsrescue.org/adopt

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Amelia Bedelia fromShelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · listed Oct 14

10. Jolene

Kitten · Female · Calico / Mixed (short coat) · 27 mi from Sweetwater

Jolene
Jolene is a gorgeous calico girl with plenty of personality—and she has two very important loves in life: treats and toys! If you're looking for a way to win Jolene's heart, we have a pretty good idea where to start. She absolutely loves treats and will happily accept them as payment for just about anything!
Jolene is also a total purr machine. Since coming into her foster home, she's really blossomed into her personality and is no longer the shy girl she once was. These days, she loves attention, has become a wonderful lap cat, and is perfectly content curling up with her foster mom. At night, one of her favorite places to be is right beside her foster mom, sleeping the night away.

Read more about Jolene

❤️
Don't let all that sweetness fool you, though—Jolene still has a wonderfully playful side! She loves playing with the other foster cats in her home and can get downright wild when toys are involved. She especially enjoys chasing and catching toys and showing off her impressive acrobatic skills. She brings plenty of fun and entertainment wherever she goes!
Born around June 25, 2026, Jolene has grown into a beautiful, affectionate young cat who enjoys both playtime and cuddle time. She would love a forever home where she can have plenty of attention, opportunities to play, and, of course, a comfortable lap to call her own.
If you're looking for a beautiful calico with a big personality, a loud purr, a playful spirit, and a serious appreciation for lap time and treats, Jolene might just be your girl. She is spayed, up to date on shots and ready to go.
Jolene is ready to trade her foster home for a forever home—and she's bringing her toys, her purrs, and her love of treats with her!
Adoption information at https://shelteranimalsrescue.org/adopt

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Jolene fromShelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · listed Sep 20

11. Annie Oakley

Kitten · Female · Domestic Medium Hair / Mixed (medium coat) · 27 mi from Sweetwater

Get ready for some Wild West fun with Annie Oakley! At about 13 weeks old (as of 10/9), this fluffy gray and white beauty is a little bundle of energy with a big love for playtime. She’s always ready for an adventure, whether she’s chasing her favorite toys or showing off her impressive ball-handling skills. This little cowgirl is quite the athlete and can really keep a small ball rolling!
Annie especially loves playing with her foster mate, Amelia Bedelia. The two make a wonderful playtime team, keeping each other entertained with all their kitten antics.
With her fluffy good looks, playful spirit, and endless enthusiasm for fun, Annie Oakley is ready to ride off into the sunset with a family of her own. Could you be the lucky one to give this adorable little cowgirl her forever home? ❤️
Adoption information at https://shelteranimalsrescue.org/adopt

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Annie Oakley fromShelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · listed Aug 13

12. Flynn

Kitten · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat) · 27 mi from Sweetwater

Flynn O'Malley, a spirited ginger male cat born on St. Patrick's Day. This active kitten is always on the move, whether he's exploring his surroundings, playing with toys, or watching the world go by from the screen porch. While he may tolerate being picked up briefly, it's clear that his preference is to be free to roam and explore on his own terms. Despite his independent streak, Flynn O'Malley is always out and about, never one to hide away. He follows his foster parents from room to room, enjoying human companionship. If you're looking for a playful and energetic feline companion who values his freedom above all else, Flynn O'Malley may be the perfect match for you.
Adoption information at https://shelteranimalsrescue.org/adopt

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Flynn fromShelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · listed Jul 9

13. Rory

Kitten · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat) · 27 mi from Sweetwater

Rory is a beautiful female ginger kitten, about 5 months old as of August 15. She’s a little unusual—and very special—as female orange cats are less common than their male counterparts. Rory came from an outdoor cat colony, so she’s still learning that people can be trusted. She is comfortable and happy living in a home, but she isn’t ready yet for petting or being held. Instead, Rory prefers to show her affection in her own way and on her own terms.
What Rory does love is playtime! She enjoys chasing toys, watching the world go by from the screen porch, and having lively wrestling matches with her brother, Flynn.

Read more about Rory

She is an active, curious kitten who would thrive with someone who understands that socializing a shy or people-averse cat takes patience, consistency, and respect for her boundaries. Rory will need an adopter who is willing to let her set the pace as she continues to build confidence. She may never be a lap cat—and that’s okay! Her ideal person will appreciate her for who she is while giving her the time and security she needs to become the best version of Rory.
If you’re looking for a unique little ginger girl with plenty of personality and a playful spirit, Rory may be your girl.
Adoption information at https://shelteranimalsrescue.org/adopt

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Rory fromShelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · listed Jul 9

14. Almond

Kitten · Female · Domestic Short Hair / Tortoiseshell / Mixed (short coat) · 27 mi from Sweetwater

Meet Cookie and Almond, the dynamic kitten sister duo, ready to sprinkle love into your life. Cookie - the fearless acrobat who thinks everything is her own personal obstacle course. This tiny bundle of pure, unrefined energy doesn't do "slow motion"- she operates entirely in fast-forward. She's convinced that gravity is just a theory. Almond- the sweet, nutty supervisor who loves nothing more than melting into your lap for endless petting and attention, although, watch out for her signature, playful foot and hand attacks. They love tumbling together in hilarious wrestling matches and pouncing on every toy in sight. Cookie and Almond are up to date on their shots and ready to find their furever recipe for happiness.

Read more about Almond

Adoption information at https://shelteranimalsrescue.org/adopt

  • Good with cats
  • House-trained
Adopt Almond fromShelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · listed Jul 2

16. Gnocchi

Young · Male · Domestic Long Hair (long coat) · 28 mi from Sweetwater

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

17. Ferrari

Young · Male · Russian Blue / Mixed (short coat) · 28 mi from Sweetwater

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

18. Gibson

Young · Male · Domestic Short Hair / Mixed (short coat) · 28 mi from Sweetwater

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

19. Chili

Young · Female · Domestic Short Hair (short coat) · 28 mi from Sweetwater

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

20. Ken

Adult · Male · Siamese / Snowshoe / Mixed (short coat) · 28 mi from Sweetwater

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

Rescues and shelters near Sweetwater

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

  • Happy Paws Kitten Rescueknoxville, TN · 52 cats · 42 mi from Sweetwater
    How to adopt from Happy Paws Kitten Rescue

    application and contract, $65 most cats and kittens

  • Maryville Alcoa Animal Rescue CenterMaryville, TN · 38 cats · 23 mi from Sweetwater
    How to adopt from Maryville Alcoa Animal Rescue Center

    Home Checks Vet Reference 3 personal References $55 -- $100

  • Wild About Cats of Cumberland CountyCrossville, TN · 15 cats · 35 mi from Sweetwater
    How to adopt from Wild About Cats of Cumberland County

    application, background and reference checks, Facetime, and finally contracts. Phone or email follow-up within the 1st week of adoption. Local adoption fees $75-$100. Transported cats $125.

  • Helping Animals Rescue TeamCrossville, TN, NJ · 11 cats · 43 mi from Sweetwater
  • Shelter Animals Rescue GroupOak Ridge, TN · 8 cats · 27 mi from Sweetwater
    How to adopt from Shelter Animals Rescue Group

    Application form, phone or personal interview, home visit, vet and personal references, adoption fee $125 dogs / $85 cats. Contract specifying that animals must be primarily indoor pets, dogs leashed or fenced; no declawing of cats, and that they cannot be passed on to others but must be returned to SARG if given up for any reason.

  • The Stray ConnectionKnoxville, TN · 6 cats · 28 mi from Sweetwater
    How to adopt from The Stray Connection

    Potential adopters are required to complete our application before adoption. Our adoption fee varies based on the age and breed of the cat. The fee includes testing for feline leukemia and aids, the series of distemper vaccines, the rabies vaccines, wormings, advantage so they are flea free when you take them home, a veterinary exam, and the spay or neuter. Microchipping is available for an additional $45. The adoption fee is waived for qualifying adopters interested in one of our sponsored cats. At the time of adoption, adopters must sign a contract indicating their willingness to obtain all remaining vaccinations, treatments, and spay or neuter. If a placement doesn't work out (e.g., a family member discovers he/she is allergic), the animal is returned to the Stray Connection and re-adopted.

  • Almost Home Animal RescueMaryville, TN · 5 cats · 34 mi from Sweetwater
    How to adopt from Almost Home Animal Rescue

    We require an adoption application and a contract. Our adoption fee is $125 for dogs and $90 for cats. Our requirements are listed on the website and on our contract.

  • Murray County Humane SocietyCrandall, GA · 3 cats · 49 mi from Sweetwater
    How to adopt from Murray County Humane Society

    adoption application, home inspection, adoption fee ($250 for puppies which includes age appropriate vaccinations & spay/neuter, $175 for adult dogs which includes age appropriate vaccinations, spay/neuter, & heartworm testing, $75 for cats or kittens which includes age appropriate vaccinations & spay/neuter)

Adopting a cat in Sweetwater

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 Sweetwater

How many cats are up for adoption in Sweetwater?

As of October 29, 2026, 138 cats and kittens are listed for adoption within 50 miles of Sweetwater, Tennessee, by 8 rescues and shelters. The list is updated every day.

Where can I adopt a cat in Sweetwater?

The rescues with the most cats near Sweetwater right now are Happy Paws Kitten Rescue (knoxville, TN), Maryville Alcoa Animal Rescue Center (Maryville, TN) and Wild About Cats of Cumberland County (Crossville, TN). Each cat above has the rescue's phone number and website.

Are there kittens for adoption in Sweetwater?

Yes. 22 kittens are up for adoption within 50 miles of Sweetwater.

How do I adopt a cat in Sweetwater?

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.