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Kittens and cats in Carlsbad, California

Looking for a kitten or cat in Carlsbad, California? Adopt a Pet can help you find a new best friend near you.

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Adopt a cat in Carlsbad, California

These adorable cats are available for adoption in Carlsbad, California. To learn more about each adoptable cat, click on the "i" icon for fast facts, or their photo or name for full details.
Photo of Mister Milo

Mister Milo

Domestic Shorthair

Male, Adult
Carlsbad, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
* To be considered for a meet/adoption, please read the full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an online application at www.dpsrescue.org.    Some Gentlemen Never Go Out of Style... Meet Mister Milo! Some cats spend their lives trying to be the center of attention. Mister Milo doesn't have to. He simply walks into the room, flashes his sweet face, and before long everyone is saying, 'Well...isn't he just the nicest cat?' Mister Milo is a 5 year old gentleman with a heart full of love, an easygoing personality, and the kind of calm confidence that makes him fit just about anywhere. He's affectionate without being demanding, playful without being wild, and friendly with just about everyone he meets. Whether your family includes children, a cat-savvy dog, or simply someone looking for a loyal companion, Mister Milo is ready to settle right in. Milo's story with DPS Rescue actually began years ago. He was adopted from us as a tiny kitten and spent years in what he believed would be his forever home. Sadly, through no fault of his own, his family could no longer care for him, and he found himself back with us. We know returning to the rescue wasn't part of the plan. And honestly... Neither did Milo. Like anyone whose world has suddenly changed, he's still adjusting to all the new faces, new routines, and new surroundings. But if there's one thing that's amazed everyone who's met him, it's how graciously he's handled it all. He hasn't let life's unexpected detours change who he is. Instead, he's continued doing what comes naturally. Loving people. Every volunteer who spends time with him walks away saying the same thing: 'He's just such a good cat.' His foster family feels exactly the same way. Mister Milo is wonderfully relaxed. He's perfectly content lounging nearby while you work, watching birds from the window, supervising dinner preparations, or simply stretching out beside you while you unwind after a long day. He's not the type to spend hours bouncing off the walls. Instead, he saves his energy for those delightful little bursts of play that seem to appear out of nowhere. One minute he's peacefully napping... The next he's chasing a toy across the room with the enthusiasm of a kitten who suddenly remembered he has places to be. Then, just as quickly... Business concluded. Back to relaxing. It's one of the many reasons people adore adult cats. You get all the fun... Without the nonstop chaos. Mister Milo also has the kind of personality that makes him incredibly easy to live with. He's social, adaptable, and genuinely enjoys being around people. Whether your home is busy with family activities or peaceful and quiet, Milo simply wants to be included. If he could design his perfect forever home, it would include a sunny window for bird watching, a cozy bed for afternoon naps, a few toys for those surprise play sessions, and people who appreciate having a loyal friend quietly sharing life's everyday moments. Most of all... He'd love a family that promises this next chapter really is forever. Because after everything he's been through, that's what he deserves. Imagine coming home after work to find a friendly face waiting to greet you. Imagine spending quiet evenings with a gentle companion curled beside you. Imagine years from now looking across the room at Mister Milo peacefully snoozing in his favorite spot and wondering how your home ever felt complete without him. Some cats fill your house. Mister Milo fills your heart. Mister Milo has been neutered, vaccinated, tested negative for FIV and FeLV, dewormed, flea treated, and microchipped. His adoption fee is $150. If you're looking for a loyal companion, a true gentleman, and a best friend who will make every day a little brighter, Mister Milo is ready to come home.  July 11, 2026, 8:53 pm
Photo of Mistee

Mistee

Domestic Mediumhair

Female, Adult
Carlsbad, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
* To be considered for a meet/adoption, please read the full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an online application at www.dpsrescue.org.    Every Superhero Needs a Sidekick... Meet Mistee! Some superheroes wear capes. Mistee carries a toy. In fact, if you visit her foster home, you'll quickly notice one very important rule: Mistee never travels without her favorite toy. Playing? Toy nearby. Taking a nap? Toy nearby. Walking across the room? Better bring the toy...just in case. Her foster family jokes that her toys have become her emotional support squad, and honestly, it's one of the most endearing things about her. She simply loves having one close, and watching her proudly carry it around is enough to make anyone smile. Mistee is a 2 year old tortoiseshell beauty with a courageous spirit, an adorable dash of tortie sass, and a heart that's finally learning what it feels like to be safe. Life hasn't always been kind to her, but despite everything she's been through, Mistee has never lost her playful personality or her determination to enjoy every single day. When Mistee arrived at DPS Rescue, she was carrying more than just her beloved toys. She had suffered a severe eye injury that needed immediate veterinary care. Thanks to wonderful medical treatment—and plenty of TLC—she has healed beautifully. Today, she's healthy, happy, and ready to leave that chapter behind her forever. Now she's focused on much more important things. Like deciding which toy deserves today's attention. Or finding the perfect sunny spot for an afternoon nap. Or reminding everyone that she is, in fact, the official supervisor of the household. Being a tortie, Mistee comes with just enough 'tortitude' to keep life interesting. She knows what she likes. She knows what she doesn't. And she isn't shy about expressing her opinions. But that's exactly what makes tortoiseshell cats so wonderfully entertaining. One minute she's chasing a toy mouse across the room like she's training for the Feline Olympics. The next she's curled up peacefully beside you, happily purring with her favorite toy tucked safely under one paw. Mistee has shown she can happily live with another cat, especially with thoughtful introductions. She enjoys companionship but also appreciates having her own space when she wants it. She's independent enough to entertain herself but affectionate enough to become a wonderful companion for someone looking for a cat with real personality. If Mistee could design her dream home, it wouldn't be complicated. A basket overflowing with toys. A cozy bed. A sunny window for neighborhood watch duties. A tall cat tree for climbing and observing her kingdom. And people who understand that every now and then she may need to carry her favorite toy from one room to another for reasons known only to Mistee. Honestly... We don't ask questions. We simply admire her commitment. What makes Mistee truly special isn't just her playful nature or her funny little quirks. It's her resilience. She has overcome pain. She has learned to trust again. She has embraced every bit of love offered to her. And now she's ready to spend the rest of her life making someone laugh, smile, and feel incredibly lucky they chose her. Imagine coming home after work to find Mistee proudly waiting with her favorite toy nearby, as though she's been guarding the house all day. Imagine watching her race across the room after a crinkly ball, only to return moments later carrying it like the greatest treasure she's ever found. Imagine spending the next fifteen years laughing every time you discover another one of her beloved toys mysteriously relocated somewhere new. Some cats play with toys. Mistee builds a lifelong friendship with them. Now she's hoping to build one with you, too. Mistee has been spayed, vaccinated, tested negative for FIV and FeLV, dewormed, flea treated, and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150. If you're looking for a cat with courage, character, a little tortie sass, and enough personality to brighten every single day, Mistee is ready to become the hero of your story.  July 11, 2026, 8:53 pm
Photo of Onyx

Onyx

Bombay

Female, Kitten
Carlsbad, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
* To be considered for a meet/adoption, please read the full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an online application at www.dpsrescue.org.    Some Gems Are Hidden... Until You Find Onyx. Diamonds get all the attention. But anyone who has ever owned an Onyx knows the real treasure is the one that quietly steals your heart. Onyx is a 14 week old kitten with a sleek black coat, sparkling eyes, and a personality that's larger than life. She's fearless, incredibly smart, endlessly entertaining, and has the kind of confidence that makes you wonder if she secretly believes she's ten feet tall. If you're looking for a kitten who will keep you laughing while filling your home with love, Onyx is ready to shine. Black cats have always been surrounded by myths. We're here to clear one thing up. The only magic Onyx possesses... ...is the magical ability to make you fall hopelessly in love. She's the first to investigate something new, the first to turn an ordinary cardboard box into an expedition, and quite possibly the first kitten to convince you that your shoelaces have been plotting against you all along. Life is simply one big adventure waiting to happen. Her foster mom says Onyx is exceptionally clever. Not just 'kitten smart.' The kind of smart that makes you stop and say, 'Wait...did she just figure that out?' She learns quickly, solves little puzzles with ease, and would likely excel at learning tricks, playing fetch, or just about any game that challenges her busy little brain. If you've ever dreamed of having one of those cats who surprises everyone with what they can do, Onyx may be your girl. Of course, being brilliant doesn't stop her from being wonderfully goofy. She has zoomies to attend. Imaginary enemies to defeat. Toy mice that clearly need chasing. And every now and then, she'll pause long enough to remind you that cuddles are also an important part of the daily schedule. Onyx has been living with two resident cats in her foster home and has fit right in. She enjoys feline companionship and could easily join a home with another playful cat. She would also do well with a cat-savvy dog who understands that tiny kittens occasionally believe they're in charge of absolutely everything. (And honestly...she may not be entirely wrong.) If Onyx could design her dream forever home, it would include: A tall cat tree worthy of climbing. A mountain of toys. Puzzle games to keep her brilliant little mind busy. A sunny window for bird watching. And people who appreciate equal parts laughter, affection, and kitten mischief. Imagine coming home to one tiny black shadow racing to greet you. Imagine laughing as she proudly carries a toy across the room like she's just won an Olympic medal. Imagine teaching her a new trick and watching her master it so quickly that you immediately start wondering what else she's capable of learning. Some kittens are cute. Some kittens are smart. Some kittens are funny. Onyx somehow managed to be all three. Black cats are often overlooked, but those lucky enough to share their lives with one will tell you they're some of the most affectionate, loyal, and unforgettable companions you'll ever meet. Onyx isn't just another kitten. She's a rare gem waiting for the right person to discover her. Onyx has been spayed, vaccinated, tested negative for FIV and FeLV, dewormed, flea treated, and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $200. If you're ready to add a little sparkle, a lot of laughter, and one extraordinary little black jewel to your family, Onyx is ready to shine her brightest with you.  July 11, 2026, 8:53 pm
Photo of Mochi

Mochi

Siamese

Male, Adult
Carlsbad, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
* To be considered for a meet/adoption, please read the full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an online application at www.dpsrescue.org.    Life Is Sweeter with Mochi. Soft. Sweet. Impossible to resist. That's true of the dessert... And it's definitely true of Mochi. Mochi is a 1 year old blue-eyed heartthrob with stunning markings, a gentle personality, and enough charm to convince almost anyone that one more cat is a perfectly reasonable idea. He's playful, affectionate, wonderfully social, and believes every day should include a little conversation, a little playtime, and a whole lot of love. If Mochi had a motto, it would probably be: 'Why sit quietly when you can tell everyone about your day?' Mochi is delightfully talkative. He enjoys chatting with his people and isn't shy about letting you know when he'd appreciate a snack, a toy, a few extra pets, or simply your undivided attention. He's the kind of cat who makes your house feel wonderfully alive because there's always someone there to greet you with a cheerful little conversation. And when it comes to affection... Mochi definitely has preferences. His absolute favorite thing in the world? Cheek rubs. Followed very closely by ear scratches. Find those two magical spots, and you'll quickly discover you've unlocked the secret to one very happy cat. When playtime rolls around, Mochi is all in. The ball track game? He could happily entertain himself for quite a while. Springs? An excellent invention. Cardboard scratchers? Five stars. He approaches toys with the same enthusiasm he brings to everything else—with curiosity, confidence, and just enough silliness to keep everyone around him smiling. Of course, after a successful day of supervising the house and defeating imaginary toy opponents, Mochi is more than happy to settle in beside his favorite people for some well-earned relaxation. One of the things everyone notices about Mochi is just how easy he is to love. He's friendly. Easygoing. Confident without being demanding. Affectionate without being clingy. He's the kind of cat who seems to fit naturally into almost any home. Mochi has been living with another young cat named Orion, and the two have become wonderful companions. While they don't have to be adopted together, they'd certainly be happy if a family happened to be looking for two young best friends to double the fun. He's also the kind of cat who could easily join a home with other pets or respectful children. His adaptable, social personality makes him a wonderful candidate for families looking for a cat who enjoys being part of the action. If Mochi could design his perfect forever home, it would include: A basket overflowing with toys. A sturdy scratching post. A cozy place to nap after a busy day. Plenty of cheek scratches. And people who don't mind carrying on the occasional conversation with their cat. (Trust us...he'll do most of the talking.) Imagine walking through your front door after a long day and immediately hearing a happy little voice announcing your arrival. Imagine laughing as Mochi proudly bats his ball around the track for the hundredth time like it's somehow just as exciting as the first. Imagine settling onto the couch while one handsome blue-eyed cat curls up nearby, soaking up ear scratches and reminding you that life is simply better together. Some cats quietly become part of your family. Mochi becomes part of your daily routine, your favorite conversations, and your happiest moments. Mochi has been neutered, vaccinated, tested negative for FIV and FeLV, dewormed, flea treated, and microchipped. His adoption fee is $150. If you're looking for a playful companion with movie-star looks, a heart full of love, and plenty to say, Mochi is ready to sweeten your life.  July 11, 2026, 8:53 pm
Photo of Valentina

Valentina

Domestic Shorthair

Female, Young
Carlsbad, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with kids, Good with dogs, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
* To be considered for a meet/adoption, please read the full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an online application at www.dpsrescue.org.    Valentina Is Ready to Be the Love of Your Life. Some names are simply beautiful. Valentina means strength, love, and courage—and after spending just a few minutes with her, you'll understand why it suits her perfectly. Valentina is a 9 month old sweetheart with a heart as big as her personality. She's affectionate, confident, wonderfully social, and believes every person she meets is simply another opportunity to make a new best friend. If you've been searching for a cat who wants to be part of your everyday life, Valentina has already packed her bags. Some cats wait for you to notice them. Valentina has a different strategy. She'll come introduce herself. After all, why wait for love when you can help it along? She's the kind of kitten who believes every lap should be occupied, every head scratch should last just a little longer, and every day should include plenty of quality time with her favorite humans. If you're sitting down, don't be surprised if she decides you've just volunteered for cuddle duty. And honestly... You won't mind one bit. Her foster family has absolutely fallen for her. One of the first things they noticed was how quickly she settled into their home. New environment? No problem. Resident cats? New friends! Valentina has a wonderfully adaptable personality that allows her to roll with life's changes and make herself right at home. She's the type of cat who seems to say, 'Don't worry...I've got this.' That confidence, paired with her affectionate nature, makes her an absolute joy to live with. Valentina would happily join a family with another friendly cat, a cat-savvy dog, or respectful children. She's social without being overwhelming and playful without being chaotic. She enjoys being part of whatever is happening around her and has the kind of personality that naturally fits into almost any loving home. She'd also be perfectly content as your one and only feline, soaking up every bit of attention for herself. (And if we're being honest...she certainly wouldn't complain.) If Valentina could write her own wish list, it would be refreshingly simple: A tall cat tree for climbing. A sunny window for bird watching. A basket full of toys. A cozy bed. And people who believe that cuddles are an important part of every single day. Imagine coming home after work and being greeted by one happy little face who's genuinely excited to see you. Imagine spending quiet evenings with a cat curled beside you, purring so loudly you're not sure whether she's thanking you...or congratulating herself for choosing such wonderful humans. Imagine years of laughter, companionship, and unconditional love from a cat who never misses an opportunity to make someone smile. Some cats become part of your family. Valentina becomes part of your heart. She has a beautiful way of making people feel loved, and once you meet her, it's easy to understand why everyone falls for her so quickly. Valentina has been spayed, vaccinated, tested negative for FIV and FeLV, dewormed, flea treated, and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $200. If you're looking for a young cat who's affectionate, confident, endlessly lovable, and ready to make every day a little brighter, Valentina is waiting to sweep you off your feet.  July 11, 2026, 8:53 pm
Photo of Tiger

Tiger

Domestic Shorthair

Female, Adult
Carlsbad, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Good with kids, Good with cats, House-trained, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
* To be considered for a meet/adoption, please read the full biography to see whether they may be a good fit for your home, then submit an online application at www.dpsrescue.org.    Tiger by Name... Teddy Bear by Nature. When you hear the name Tiger, you might picture a fearless jungle cat. Then you meet this Tiger... ...and discover she's much more interested in conquering your lap than the wilderness. Tiger is a 2 year old sweetheart with a heart as soft as her purr and a personality that could melt even the toughest day. Gentle, affectionate, and wonderfully easygoing, she's the kind of cat who makes a house feel instantly warmer simply by being in it. If your dream companion is one who enjoys quiet moments, cozy cuddles, and being close to her favorite people, Tiger may be exactly who you've been searching for. Tiger has mastered one important life skill: Finding the coziest spot in the house. Sometimes it's perched high on her cat tree, where she can watch the world go by from her favorite lookout. Sometimes it's a sunny patch on the floor. But her favorite place? Your lap. Her foster mom works from home, and Tiger has happily appointed herself the official office assistant. While emails are answered and meetings come and go, Tiger's most important responsibility is making sure her foster mom never has to work alone. She curls up contentedly in her lap, purring away as if she's reminding her that deadlines are much easier with a furry coworker. It's a job she takes very seriously. Tiger isn't flashy. She doesn't need to perform acrobatics or race through the house to capture your heart. Instead, she wins people over the old-fashioned way—with kindness, quiet companionship, and an endless supply of affection. She's the kind of cat who makes ordinary moments feel special. Reading a book? Tiger would love to join you. Watching your favorite show? She'll save you a seat. Working from home? Expect regular cuddle breaks, courtesy of your newest supervisor. Tiger currently lives with another cat and has done beautifully, but we also think she'd be perfectly happy as your one and only feline, soaking up every bit of love and attention for herself. She would also do well in a home with respectful older children who understand that the best friendships are built with kindness and gentle hands. If Tiger could design her perfect forever home, it wouldn't be extravagant. A tall cat tree for afternoon bird watching. A few cozy beds scattered around the house. A lap that's available whenever possible. And a family who appreciates the quiet comfort of having a loyal companion always nearby. Imagine working from home with one content little cat purring peacefully in your lap. Imagine ending each evening with Tiger curled beside you, making even the busiest day feel calm again. Imagine years of quiet companionship from a cat who asks for very little but gives so much in return. Some cats bring excitement. Tiger brings peace. And sometimes, that's exactly what we need most. Tiger has been spayed, vaccinated, tested negative for FIV and FeLV, dewormed, flea treated, and microchipped. Her adoption fee is $150. If you're looking for a gentle, affectionate companion who will happily trade the jungle for your lap, Tiger is ready to make your home her forever sanctuary.  July 11, 2026, 8:53 pm

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Use the search tool below to browse adoptable kittens and adult cats in Carlsbad, California.

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Cat shelters and rescues in Carlsbad, California

There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for cats in Carlsbad, California. Browse these rescues and shelters below.

Here are a few organizations closest to you:

Rescue

ARRF (Animal Rescue Resource Foundation)

(we're a FOSTER program; NO SHELTER!), Carlsbad, CA 92011

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Doggie Protective Services (DPS) - Carlsbad

Carlsbad, CA 92011

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Shelter

San Diego Humane Society - Oceanside Campus (Cats and Small Animals)

572 Airport Road, Oceanside, CA 92058

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, farm animals, horses, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Shelter

San Diego Humane Society - Oceanside Campus (Dogs)

2905 San Luis Rey Road, Oceanside, CA 92058

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs, farm animals, horses, rabbits, reptiles, small animals

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Rescue

Boxers N Birds Animal Rescue Inc.

655 Benet Rd., Oceanside, CA 92058

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs

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Rescue

SPOT (Saving Pets One at a Time)

3784 Mission Ave Ste 148-356, Oceanside, CA 92058

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Meow & Furrever Rescue

Carlsbad, CA 92013

Pet Types: cats

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Shelter

San Diego County Department of Animal Services - North Region

2481 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad, CA 92009

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

Meow or Never - California

Oceanside, CA 92056

Pet Types: cats

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Rescue

Room 4 One More

Oceanside, CA 92056

Pet Types: cats, dogs, rabbits

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For a comprehensive list of all shelters and rescues, try our search page. We have more than 17,000 organizations in our database with furry pals waiting for a new home!

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