Gifford Cat Shelter — Local services in Boston

I went to Gifford because I got a pair of cats from them decades ago without any problems. Times have changed. Don't bother looking on their website because you might fall in love with a cat that you will likely not get. THEY pick your cat for you based on THEIR idea of which cat will be best for you. And you won't get it soon. Here is a direct quote from an eMail I got from Gifford.

"We work by way of a matchmaking process, where we seek information from applicants about what they are looking for (or not looking for) in a cat or cats. Based on that information, and once a person makes it through our approved adopter list (which can be a bit lengthy at times), we review cats in care against the applicant's information and offer meet and greets with 1 or 2 cats or pairs of cats we think fit what a person is looking for. We email you their profiles ahead of time and if you want to meet them, we set up a time and if they don't seem quite right, we would try again based on your feedback about the offered cat(s). We don't currently have appointments where people can come meet multiple cats without working through the matchmaking process. If you are OK proceeding with our matchmaking process . . . ."

No, I am not OK with that. Talk about arrogance. They also did not tell me if I was on their "approved adopter list" even tho they did say their interview with my vet went fine. And they only other thing they said about wait time was that kitten season was coming up so I shouldn't have to wait too long.

I'll get a pair of kittens...

My husband and I just adopted our beautiful 4 year old kitty Nala (formerly Malinda) from Gifford. The adoption application and approval process was absolutely seamless and prompt and the voluneers/staff are wonderful. Although I had grown up my whole life with cats, this would be the first time that I would have a cat that was completely our own. They took the time to learn what kind of personality we were looking for in a cat and helped match us with good fits. I love the open roam concept of this shelter and was impressed with the cleanliness and organization. The volunteers are totally dedicated to this place and pour their hearts and souls into their work for these kitties. They will continue to be there for you if you ever have questions or concerns post-adoption. I highly recommend Gifford as the perfect place to adopt...

I had an amazing experience at this cat shelter. I was screened via phone call and was shortly approved for adoption. When they received a kitten they knew would be a good fit for me, they immediately reached out. They want you to meet the cat first to see if you "match". I loved this because it shows their compassion for the cat itself. The shelter itself was unique. No cold metal cages or sad faces. There were separate rooms with cat beds, litter boxes, food, toys, and plenty of windows to view outside. It was very clean and organized. Luckily I matched with my top choice kitten and we are now both very happy. They provided me with an in depth medical record, plenty of information on care, and a little goodie bag with treats, toys, and food! Kiwi and I cannot thank...