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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.

A pair of cats

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 Ruby

Ruby

American Shorthair

Female, Adult
Carlsbad, CA
Size
(when grown) -
Details
Declawed, Spayed or Neutered, Shots are up-to-date,
Story
Exciting News: This adorable pup can be at an adoption event NEAR YOU! First check our website to make sure the pup is still available for adoption: https://amazingdogsrescue.org/ap-dogs Or call or text 888.508.8943 (Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 8 PM). Our medical team does everything they can to ensure the health of our dogs before they are placed up for adoption, which includes (but is not limited to): - Vaccinations against Parvovirus, Distemper, Adenovirus and Parainfluenza (all dogs have at least 2 of these vaccines (value $60+), puppies at least 3 (value $90+)) - Vaccination against Bordetella and Leptospirosis (value $40+) - Vaccination against Rabies (dogs 5+ months; value $20+) - Test (Idexx Snap 4Dx) for Heartworm, Lyme's disease, Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichiosis (for adult dogs; value $60+) - Recent full panel blood test (value $150+) for all adult dogs - Micro-chip with life long free registration (value $50+) - Deworming (roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms; value $20+) - Treatment with Bravecto against fleas and ticks (value $50+) Of course, ALL our dogs are spayed or neutered before going to their new home. These surgeries cost anywhere from $150 to $500+). We even cut their nails for you ... We organize adoption events throughout the states of CA, NV and AZ. Check our website for more information. Here you can check if the pup is still looking for a home: https://amazingdogsrescue.org/ap-dogs Call or text 888.508.8943 (Monday to Sunday, 8 AM to 8 PM) if you have any questions. Check our social media to see the happy pictures of thousands of rescues who found a new loving home through us: https://www.facebook.com/AmazingDogsRescue https://www.instagram.com/AmazingDogsRescue
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 18, 2026, 7:12 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 18, 2026, 7:12 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 18, 2026, 7:12 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 18, 2026, 7:12 pm
Photo of Peninsula: Foster

Peninsula: Foster

Turkish Van

Female, Kitten
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.    Warning: Your House Will Never Be the Same At just 13 weeks old, the Peninsula Litter has already mastered the art of being kittens. Some kittens spend their days quietly napping in a sunbeam. These are not those kittens. The Peninsula Litter believes every shoelace is a snake that must be defeated. Every cardboard box is a luxury condo. Every paper bag is an amusement park. They can turn a crumpled receipt into a 30-minute sporting event, race through the house at warp speed for absolutely no reason, then collapse in a tiny pile as if they have just completed an Olympic marathon. Five minutes later, they do it all again. If you've ever laughed while a kitten proudly carried a toy twice their size through the house at 2:00 a.m., found yourself applauding an impossible leap from the couch to the cat tree, or wondered why there was suddenly a kitten hanging halfway out of a laundry basket, you already understand the magic of this age. These four siblings—Mateo, Foster, Carlos, and Clara—are exactly what kittens should be: curious, fearless, playful, affectionate, and endlessly entertaining. They've been raised in loving foster homes where they've been well socialized from the very beginning. They've been exposed to dogs and other cats and would do wonderfully in a home with respectful children. They're confident little explorers who settle in quickly because people have always been part of their world. Whether you live in a downtown apartment, a cozy condo, or a house with room to roam, these kittens aren't looking for square footage. They're looking for someone who will laugh when they steal a sock, smile when they chase invisible 'monsters' across the living room, and happily make room for a warm little body curled up beside them at the end of the day. Picture coming home from work and being greeted by tiny paws racing to the door. Imagine making your morning coffee while a curious kitten supervises from the nearest chair. Picture movie nights with a purring kitten asleep in your lap, or lazy Sunday mornings when the biggest decision is whether to chase a toy mouse or curl up in a sunny window for a nap. Before long, you'll wonder how your home ever felt complete without them. Because kittens almost always do better with another playful feline companion, we'd especially love to see two of these siblings continue growing up together. Mateo and Foster are the very best of friends. They currently live together, play together, wrestle together, and often end the day curled up side by side. We'd absolutely love to see them continue their adventures in the same home. Carlos and Clara are another wonderful pair we'd love to see adopted together as they live together now. They complement each other beautifully and make a fantastic duo. These pairings are not requirements, and we'll always choose the home that is the best fit for each kitten. However, if we have two equally qualified applicants and one family is interested in adopting one of these pairs together, that family will receive priority. If you're looking for laughter, companionship, endless entertainment, and tiny best friends who will quickly become cherished members of your family, the Peninsula Litter is ready to fill your home with love, purrs, and just the right amount of kitten mischief. We can't wait for you to meet them.They have all been spayed, vaccinated, tested negative for FIV and FeLV, dewormed, flea treated, and microchipped. Their adoption fee is $350 for the pair or $200 per kitten. . July 18, 2026, 7:12 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

Doggie Protective Services (DPS) - Carlsbad

Carlsbad, CA 92011

Pet Types: cats, dogs

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Rescue

ARRF (Animal Rescue Resource Foundation)

(we're a FOSTER program; NO SHELTER!), 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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Rescue

Boxers N Birds Animal Rescue Inc.

655 Benet Rd., Oceanside, CA 92058

Pet Types: cats, birds, dogs

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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

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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