Rescues and shelters partnership

Join us in finding homes for the Valley’s cats — because they all belong to all of us

Why Partner With Desert Catopia?

The Coachella Valley has a heartbreaking reality — an overwhelming number of stray and abandoned cats, all searching for a second chance. At the same time, our community is alive with festivals, markets, and events filled with people who would love to adopt if only they had the right opportunity. That’s where Desert Catopia comes in.

We know how much work goes into running a rescue. Finding homes for adult cats, special needs cats, and long-term residents takes time and resources that many shelters just don’t have. That’s why we bring the adoption process to the people — right where they already are.

what we offer

  • More Exposure, More Adoptions – We take your cats to festivals, farmers' markets, and community events, reaching adopters who might never visit a shelter.

  • Focus on Hard-to-Adopt Cats – Kittens go fast, but adult cats, bonded pairs, and special needs cats need extra help. We spotlight them to the right adopters.

  • Save Time & Resources – We handle the adoption process from start to finish, easing the workload on your team.

  • Comprehensive Post-Adoption Support – We use the latest technology to guide new adopters through challenges and uncertainties, ensuring a smooth transition and reducing the risk of failed adoptions.

  • Build a Stronger Community – Every event is a chance to educate people about rescue work and responsible pet ownership.

No matter where a cat comes from, it deserves a chance at a home. Let’s work together to make that happen.

health requirEments

  • Kittens (Under 1 Year):

    At least 2 doses of FVRCP vaccine (core vaccine) with the last dose given at least 2 weeks prior to the adoption event.

    Rabies vaccine is required for kittens over 6 months of age.

    Adult Cats (Over 1 Year):

    Core vaccines + yearly FVRCP booster

    Rabies booster

  • All the cats regardless of age are required to have an ISO 11784/11785 Compliant Microchip. The microchip must be registered to the rescue organization.

  • All the cats entering the bus are requred to be spay or neutered. We do not adopt out unaltered cats and we do not offer pre-adoptions.

    We recommend that cats be at least 3 days post-surgery prior to adoption to ensure proper postoperative recovery.

  • Before adopting out a cat, shelters and rescues should ensure that the cat has received appropriate deworming treatment and is free of any major parasites. A broad-spectrum dewormers should be used with the appropriate dosage and time intervals to ensure proper eradication of intestinal parasites in cats. Here's more detailed information about how to properly administer broad-spectrum dewormer please consult your veterinarian.

  • Before adoption, all cats should undergo treatment to prevent and eliminate fleas and ear mites to ensure they are healthy and ready for their new homes.

  • Before boarding a cat on the bus, it must meet the following health criteria:

    • No Upper Respiratory disease: The cat should not exhibit signs of respiratory illness.

    • No Lethargy: The cat should be active and alert, not showing signs of tiredness or lack of energy.

    • No Loose Stool: The cat should have firm, normal stool, indicating proper digestion and health.

    • No Watery Eyes: Eyes should be clear without excessive tearing or discharge.

    • No Skin Lesions: The cat should have healthy, unbroken skin, free from sores, rashes, or other abnormalities.

    Desert Catopia reserves the right to deny bus boarding to any cat that appears sick or exhibits any of these sick behaviors. This policy ensures the safety and well-being of all cats on the bus.

Desert Catopia is dedicated to ensuring that all cats placed for adoption through our mobile adoption service are healthy, safe, and ready for their new homes. To maintain high standards of care and transparency, all rescue partners must meet the following health requirements for cats participating in our adoption events.

Rescue partners must provide complete and accurate medical records for each cat. Intake documentation should include the cat’s background information, any known medical history, and any treatments or procedures performed while in rescue care. Any known medical conditions, ongoing treatments, or special needs must be disclosed to Desert Catopia and potential adopters to ensure proper care and informed decision-making.

Ready to partner with us?

Please submit our contact form and tell us more about your organization and goals.

Please note: Desert Catopia only works with registered rescues and shelters. We cannot accept cats from unlicensed rescuers or the public and do not offer rehoming services. Our goal is to support rescues so they have more availability to help those in need.

our partners

Download our Rescue Collaboration Flyer to learn how we can work together!