How to Rehome a Cat in New Zealand: A Step-by-Step Guide

Rehoming a cat is never easy — and we know that if you’re reading this, you’re doing it because you care.
Whether you’re facing a major life change or can no longer provide the care your cat deserves, it’s okay to ask for help. At Pet Rescue New Zealand, we’re here to support you with a safe, compassionate, and trusted rehoming process.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to rehome a cat in New Zealand, covering everything from legal and emotional considerations to how to list your cat on our platform — PetRescue.org.nz.
You’re not alone — and with the right approach, you can find your cat a loving new home where they’ll be safe and happy.

Why People Need to Rehome a Cat

Life doesn’t always go according to plan — and sometimes, despite our love for our pets, we find ourselves in a position where we need to rehome them. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or guilty, please know you’re not alone. Many caring pet owners in New Zealand face similar situations every day.

Here are some of the most common reasons people need to rehome a cat:

🏡 Housing Issues

• Rental properties in NZ often have strict no-pet policies.
• Emergency moves or downsizing can make it impossible to keep a cat.

💰 Financial Challenges

• Rising costs of living, vet care, or pet food can become unmanageable.
• Sudden job loss or long-term financial hardship may force tough decisions.

🤧 Allergies and Health Problems

• Allergies — especially in children — may develop over time.
• A family member’s health condition could be worsened by pet hair or dander.

🧠 Behavioural or Emotional Stress

• Cats who don’t get along with other pets or children may need a different environment.
• Sometimes, the mental toll of trying to manage a pet’s challenging behaviour becomes too much.

🧳 Life Changes

• Moving overseas or into aged care facilities
• Separation, divorce, or the loss of a family member

No matter your reason, rehoming doesn’t mean you’re giving up. It means you’re doing what’s right — ensuring your cat has the best chance at a happy, healthy life, even if it’s not with you.

Legal and Emotional Considerations

When it comes to rehoming your cat, it’s important to handle the process with care — not just emotionally, but legally as well. Doing it the right way helps protect both your cat and their new owner, while also giving you peace of mind.

⚖️ Your Legal Responsibility

In New Zealand, as a pet owner, you have a duty of care under the Animal Welfare Act. This means:

• You must ensure your cat is rehomed to a person or family who will provide proper food, shelter, and medical care.
• You should disclose any known health or behavioural issues honestly to potential adopters. Misleading or hiding this information could lead to serious welfare concerns.
• If your cat is microchipped or registered, you’ll need to transfer ownership and update records accordingly. Some councils require updates to local pet registers.

💡 Tip: If you adopted your cat from a shelter, check your original adoption agreement. Some organisations may request that the cat be returned to them if rehoming is needed.

💔 Managing the Emotional Side of Rehoming

Rehoming a cat isn’t just a legal process — it’s an emotional one. You may feel sadness, guilt, or even shame. But those feelings are normal.

Here’s how to care for yourself during the process:

• Acknowledge your emotions — it’s okay to grieve or feel conflicted.
• Talk to someone you trust — a friend, vet, or animal welfare advisor.
• Focus on the positive outcome — your decision gives your cat a second chance.

Remember: You’re not abandoning your cat. You’re finding them a safe, loving new home — and that’s an act of love.

Safe and Ethical Ways to Rehome a Cat

Rehoming a cat is a big responsibility — not just for your peace of mind, but for your cat’s future. The goal isn’t just to find any home, but a safe, loving, and suitable one. Here’s how to approach rehoming ethically and with care.

🚫 What to Avoid

While it might seem quicker to post your cat on general marketplaces or social media groups, these platforms carry significant risks:

• ❌ No way to know who the adopter really is
• ❌ Higher chance of neglect, abandonment, or worse
• ❌ No tools or advice to help you screen people properly

“Free to a good home” posts, especially without clear communication, can sadly lead to the wrong hands.

✅ Safer Alternatives

Instead, consider options where you stay in control of the process and can connect directly with people who genuinely want to adopt:

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Ask Around First

• Start with friends, whānau, or colleagues.
• You may already know someone who’s been wanting to adopt.

🐾 Reach Out to Rescues or Shelters

• Some animal welfare groups may offer advice or intake if space allows.
• Note: Due to demand, availability is limited in many areas.

🌐 Use PetRescue.org.nz — a New Zealand Rehoming Platform

• Create a listing for your cat that stays live until you choose to remove it
• Share details, photos, and personality traits so potential adopters know what to expect
• You review and choose who you feel is the best match — we do not verify adopters, but we do provide a space where you can safely connect and communicate

💡 Tip: Ask potential adopters thoughtful questions about their home setup, experience with cats, and how they’ll care for your pet.

While we don’t verify every adopter on PetRescue, we give you the tools to make an informed decision — and the freedom to say no if something doesn’t feel right.

How to Rehome Your Cat Using PetRescue.org.nz (Step-by-Step)

Rehoming your cat through PetRescue.org.nz is simple, free, and designed to give you full control. You decide how to describe your cat, who you want to speak with, and who your cat goes home with. Here’s how to do it:

✅ Step 1: Go to the Listing Page

Visit www.petrescue.org.nz/add-listing
This is where you’ll start the process of creating a profile for your cat.

✅ Step 2: Add Your Cat’s Details

Fill in the information form with the following:

• Name & Age
• Breed or Mix (if known)
• Personality traits (e.g., affectionate, shy, playful)
• Medical history (vaccinations, desexing, any conditions)
• Reason for rehoming (a short, honest explanation)

💡 Be honest and kind. Clear descriptions help potential adopters understand what your cat needs and if they’re a good match.

✅ Step 3: Upload a Great Photo

A good photo makes a big difference. Choose one that shows your cat’s personality — whether they’re curled up in the sun or playfully reaching out with a paw.

📸 Tips:

• Use natural light
• Focus on the cat’s eyes
• Avoid clutter in the background

✅ Step 4: Publish Your Listing

Once your listing is submitted, it goes live on PetRescue.org.nz. You’ll be contacted directly by potential adopters via the contact method you provided.

🛑 Note: PetRescue.org.nz does not verify adopters — so you’re responsible for screening and choosing who you feel is the right fit.

✅ Step 5: Talk to Interested Adopters

Take your time. Ask questions like:

• Have they owned cats before?
• Do they rent or own their home?
• How long will the cat be left alone daily?
• Do they have other pets or children?

You can request photos of their home setup or even arrange a safe meet-and-greet if you’re comfortable.

✅ Step 6: Finalise the Rehoming

Once you’ve found the right match:

• Organise a handover
• Provide any food, bedding, or toys your cat is used to
• Share vet records or microchip details if applicable
• Update your council and/or microchip registry

Rehoming through PetRescue is designed to be empowering, simple, and community-driven. You’re not alone — and you’re doing something incredibly kind.

After Rehoming: Follow-Up Tips

Once your cat has settled into their new home, it’s natural to feel a mix of relief, sadness, and even doubt. These feelings are normal — and they often come from a place of love.

Here are a few tips to help you through this transition:

💌 Check In (If You’re Comfortable)

• A simple message or email a few days later can give you peace of mind.
• Most adopters are happy to share an update or photo.
• If things don’t work out, you may agree to take the cat back or help find another home — this is something you can discuss before finalising adoption.

🧸 Leave Familiar Items

• Providing your cat’s bed, toys, or blanket can ease their adjustment to the new environment.

🧘‍♀️ Be Kind to Yourself

• Rehoming is emotionally hard — even when it’s the right thing to do.
• Remind yourself that you acted in your cat’s best interest.
• Surround yourself with supportive people or pet-loving communities.

🎉 Conclusion: You’re Doing the Right Thing

Rehoming a cat is never a decision made lightly. It takes thought, care, and love — and by choosing to do it safely and responsibly, you’re giving your cat a chance at a happy new life.

At PetRescue.org.nz, we’re here to make that process easier. Our free, online listings help connect pet owners with adopters all across New Zealand — giving you a way to find the right home without pressure or judgment.

Whether you need to rehome your cat urgently or are just exploring your options, you’re not alone.
Take your next step today:
👉 List your cat for rehoming