Trust & safety
Kindness needs guardrails.
Never let urgency erase your instincts. A legitimate adopter will understand careful questions and a paced handoff.
Verify the person
Use identity and linked-account signals as a starting point, not a guarantee. Video chat and confirm that names and contact details are consistent.
Ask about the household
Confirm all residents agree, landlords allow pets, current animals receive vet care, and the adopter has a realistic care plan.
Watch for red flags
Pressure, inconsistent stories, interest in many unrelated animals, refusal to share basics, or an immediate handoff request are reasons to stop.
Meet with support
Bring another adult, share your plan with someone, and avoid isolated locations. Do not give strangers unsupervised access to your home.
Protect the cat
Share records securely, use a carrier, transfer familiar food and objects, and document a return plan if the match breaks down.
Report concerns
Save messages and details. Contact local authorities for immediate danger and the platform team for suspicious behavior or policy violations.