How to Adopt a Cat Through 4Paws Rescue Team

Updated

4Paws Rescue Team is a volunteer-run, foster-based cat rescue serving Northern Virginia and the wider DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area. To adopt through them, start by browsing the available cats on fourpaws.org, then meet cats in person at an adoption fair or partner location, and complete the adoption process from there. The rescue also offers a separate "Barn Cats" placement option for cats that aren't suited to indoor pet homes.

Where to Browse Adoptable Cats

The site's Adopt a Cat section is the main entry point. It includes:

  • All Available Cats — the full listing of cats currently in foster care.
  • Singles Ads — individual profiles for cats looking for a home.
  • Adoption Fairs — a schedule of in-person meet-and-greet events.
  • Barn Cats — a distinct track for working/barn placements rather than indoor pets.
  • Adoption Locations — where cats can be visited outside of fairs.

If you already know what you're looking for, the "All Available Cats" list is the fastest way to see who is currently adoptable.

Meet Cats in Person: Adoption Fairs and Locations

Adoption fairs are the most direct way to meet cats and talk with volunteers. The site's Upcoming Events section lists these, for example:

Detail Example from the site
Event Adoption Fair
Location Petco Sterling, 22000 Dulles Retail Plz, Sterling, VA 20166
Time 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
What to expect Meet the attendees (cats and volunteers)

Check the Adoption Fairs page for the current schedule before you go, since events change. The Adoption Locations page lists other places where cats can be seen.

Standard Adoption vs. Barn Cats

These are two different paths, and choosing the right one matters:

  • Standard adoption is for cats and kittens intended as indoor companion animals. You browse available cats, meet them at a fair or location, and proceed through the rescue's adoption process.
  • Barn Cats is a placement option for cats that are not suited to living as indoor pets. If you have a barn, stable, or similar property and want a working cat, this is the route to explore instead of the standard adoption listings.

If your goal is a lap cat or family pet, use the standard listings. If you're looking for a working cat for a rural property, start with the Barn Cats page.

Prepare Before You Apply

The site's Prepare for Adoption resource is worth reading before you commit. It covers what to expect and how to get ready for a new cat. Related resources that may matter depending on the cat you choose include:

  • Spaying and Neutering — background on the rescue's approach to sterilization.
  • FIV and FeLV — information on feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus, relevant if a listed cat has tested positive.
  • Pet Wellbeing and Cat Resources — general care guidance.

Next Steps and Ways to Get Involved

If you're ready to move forward:

  1. Browse All Available Cats and note any you'd like to meet.
  2. Check Adoption Fairs and Adoption Locations for a chance to meet them in person.
  3. Review Prepare for Adoption so you know what the process involves.
  4. Contact the rescue with questions at [email protected] or 703-715-6369.

If adoption isn't the right fit right now, the rescue also lists Foster and Volunteer opportunities, and accepts Donate contributions. It states that it is a 501(c)(3) public charity (CFC #34517) and that 96¢ of every donated dollar goes directly to the cats and kittens.