Ellen M Gifford Cat Shelter

A great experience for me. This is a very nice shelter where the cats are taken good care of. While the adoption process may be more in depth than others, I appreciated it as you do not want a bad fit for both cat and adopter.
I adopted a great little 11 month old. She was sick for about a week and the Gifford staff kept her in order to give her her meds and make sure she was well enough to come home. The staff cares about the cats here.
Highly recommend.

I think they really care about their cats. Maybe I am biased because our fur ball is the most amazing mischievous cute laid-​back and handsome looking cat ever born to the planet earth. But they organize event, they call references to make sure you will provide a good home, and they have wonderful volunteers who care about the cats. Our cat’s caretaker gave him a catnip pepper to take home. And the facilities are catered to the needs of different cats.

To obtain a more accurate assessment of this shelter, I highly recommend that all potential adopters read some of the «not recommended» reviews on the bottom. Most of the reviews posted are at least two years old so they are rather outdated.
The facilities, most staff, and volunteers are all fantastic. All visitors can see that these cats are very well-​cared for and extremely loved. The adoption application is more extensive than other shelters (they will call all of your references before you are placed on an approved list for six months), but I can definitely appreciate the conscious effort the shelter makes in placing all of their cats in good homes. After searching for the right cat for more than a year, we were extremely impressed with this shelter and were convinced that we would find a cat here even if it meant paying a slightly higher adoption fee ($ 150.00 for older cats — $ 225.00 for kittens).
What we did not expect was an adoption manager with crazy standards about what types of people he should be matching cats to. Regarding the specific cat that we were most interested in, he mentioned that he would rather place the cat in a home with a dog or adult children. Although I can understand that these attributes would make a better match for the cat, the hypothetical dog or children may not necessarily get along with the cat. When we pressed on about this and the cat being in the shelter for several months in a single kennel, he insinuated that we did not know what we wanted and that we would return the cat. He even said as much, saying something along the lines of «sometimes when people are dead set on a cat, they don’t really know what they are getting into» and then referenced a bad match that had a occurred a few weeks prior. Again, I can understand him wanting the cat to go to a good home BUT taking his statements together, hopefully you can see why I interpreted his attitude to be very insulting.
Don’t get me wrong. There were plenty of other cats there that we may have adopted and been a better match for. However, instead of directing our attention to the other cats we had mentioned on our application (and not losing a potential adopter), he suggested two other cats, one being an extremely skittish cat that did not like people. We had seen this cat running around the catio outside and were told by many volunteers that he would do better with other cats («He likes other cats, but not people.») The adoption manager also knew that this cat would need some work (which to me suggests a special match) joking that this cat would be a good fit if we were looking for a «project.» Suggesting this cat was the ultimate deal breaker for me. For someone who had made a big stink about adopting the other cat to the best match possible, I find it extremely ironic and illogical for him to even suggest adopting this cat to a couple with no other cats.
To conclude, my review is not meant to deter anyone from visiting this shelter. It is truly a wonderful organization. In fact, it is such a fantastic place for cats that sometimes I wonder if the cats are better off staying at the shelter with their friends than going home with a stranger. However, my own experience really put me off and I probably won’t ever return. I can tell that the adoption manager loves the cats under his care. However, I do know that he employs different standards for his favorites — which I don’t agree with.
Anyways — there is a happy ending for all. A few weeks after this incident, the cat we were interested in was adopted and, my bf and I met and adopted a little 6 year old tuxedo from the MSPCA in Jamaica Plain. Pictures attached. This special little man suffers from cerebellar hypoplasia (which makes him a little wobbly) but he doesn’t let it get him down. We have had him for almost five months, but it feels like a lifetime. My only regret is that I did not meet him sooner.

My opinion of the Gifford shelter went from excellent to terrible. I was a first-​time cat owner. I visited several shelters, and I really loved Gifford. The cats were group housed there, and some of them were allowed to walk freely in the room. The staff was friendly and helpful. Then I found THE cat. The online description said she’s a little shy as she’s still settling into the shelter, and she’s sweet and loves being petted. It also said she’s house trained. However, after the cat moved in with me, it immediately turned out that she was super anxious and shy. She hid in the corner all the time during the day, and she didn’t play with any toy, not even the laser pointer. I understand that she might have had some terrible experience before, but it was really hard to get along with her. For example, one moment I was holding her and patting her, and everything was perfectly fine, and the next minute once I started speaking or the door opened, she got so scared and she had to run away, and she scratched me badly on her way to escape. Moreover, she peed on my bed repeatedly, and she peed and pooped on my couches repeatedly. After trying for three months, going to the shelter, soliciting and implementing their advice, I gave up and decided to return her to the shelter. On one hand, I liked the cat, and I felt bad having to send her back. On the other hand, the experience of returning her to the shelter was very unpleasant. Perhaps I am sensitive, but after I returned the cat and came out of the shelter I do feel like I’m on the shelter blacklist. I feel that the staff didn’t fully appreciate that I put into a lot of efforts on this cat. The return policy at the shelter is also problematic: if I were to adopt there again, I would have to pay the full adoption fee again despite the fairly extreme and difficult circumstances above. Furthermore, one day after I returned the cat, I found her available for adoption online again, using the exact same profile I’d seen a few months ago, not mentioning any of the interim events, or even hinting at her behavioral problems.

Debbie was fantastic to deal with and paired my boyfriend and I with the two perfect kittens. We couldn’t be happier to have two little kittens add our family and Debbie and everyone at the shelter made it so easy and simple to do. The application process was pretty easy and we were so happy to get the call saying we were approved. Everyone at the shelter is super nice and friendly. You can tell they are in it for the cats. They make sure you are a good match and they do call your references just to make sure you will be good cat parents. Debbie answered all of our questions and makes you feel so at ease with the process of adopting. We had our hearts broken a few times trying to find our perfect kittens but our journey ended on Saturday when we met Thelma and Lou (now Elsa and Ana). We met our kittens and had them come home with us the same day! So far they are just thriving in our home and we look forward to the days to come with them. Thank you Debbie and the Gifford Cat Shelter for finding us our kitties!

Had to come to this site to recommend the Ellen M. Gifford Cat Shelter to anyone who is looking to adopt a cat. This shelter was recommended to me by a coworker who knew I was hoping to do so, and my boyfriend and I were very impressed with the review. We filled out the adoption form on Friday morning, and were contacted in the early afternoon. The application was thorough, and both of our references were contacted — I was very impressed with the level of dedication and research that went into the shelter’s approval process.
Once we were approved, we came in for a visit. Not only was the shelter impeccably clean, but it was a total cat paradise — the cats were free to roam within the main room, or to play outside in the shelter’s large outdoor space. They also had a room for the younger cats, and were sure to keep any cats with special needs in their own spacious, separate areas. The staff was absolutely phenomenal. They were able to speak to the personalities and needs of every one of the cats at the shelter. They knew their histories, the things they liked and disliked, and the kinds of homes where they’d feel safest. The cats themselves were clearly cared for, healthy, and adoptable.
We were able to come home with two kittens, one of whom, because he had just been rescued, requires some extra care. The day after we brought them home, Debbie called to check in and see how everything was going. I thought this was exceptional –they care so much about their cats, that they are there providing support even after you bring them home. I was touched and encouraged by their generosity. Our cats are so loving, and even though we’ve only had them two days, seem to be really warming up.
I have nothing but great things to say about this shelter. This is an amazing place for anyone who cares about cats, or animals in general.

After researching several shelters, we decided to check out the Ellen Gifford shelter when we decided we were ready to adopt a cat. I filled out the application online first (Be sure to do this! You have to be approved in order to be able to take a kitty home with you!) and was impressed by how thorough the application check was.
When we arrived at the shelter on Saturday, all the volunteers were really great – friendly and helpful. They took us around to see each cat, and were very patient with us as we made up our minds. They were careful to disclose any issues the cats might have – the one we ended up choosing had been having some problems with his litterbox, and they made sure we understood what was going on before we took him home, which I appreciated. All of them were obviously very fond of the cats, and were working hard to help them put their best paws forward on adoption day.
Everything was very clean and well kept at the shelter, and cats who were ill were kept away from the rest (a few were getting over colds at the time we were there, and they were quarantined away from the healthy ones, with warnings about hand washing after handling clearly posted on their pens). All the cats seemed healthy and happy, cheerful and well-​groomed.
Although the screening process might seem a little intense, and the price for an adoption might be a little higher than at other places, I can’t recommend the Ellen M Gifford Shelter enough. It is a great place, doing great work, and we are madly in love with Briscoe, the newest member of our family!

Fantastic organization. I literally spent months visiting the Ellen Gifford shelter hoping to find the right match. As a new cat owner I didn’t want to take any risks. Every employee and volunteer here was so patient with me, giving me insight into the personal stories of each cat and allowing me space and time to just get to know them. Finally I came in one day, and as they say, the cat chooses you. I had found the perfect little friend. Once they knew, it was a very efficient process to adopt. If you are serious about finding a cat, and you are in the right place in you’re life to take care of one — the process is easy. The employees notice when you’ve connected with one of the cats, they know when you’ve visited and if you return. Essentially, they know if you’re serious.
This place is simply the best. It’s only icing on the cake that they are cageless, no kill, and don’t turn away surrenders. The real magic are the employees and volunteers who go out of their way to connect with these creatures every day.
Now, Bean (formerly Foxy) and I couldn’t be happier together.

I just brought home from Gifford’s a new feline companion. I was very impressed by the dedication of the staff, the fierce desire to take care of these creatures they take in and to place them in safe homes. The organization is top-​notch and many volunteers participate in the shelter’s smooth running – which has to be a good sign. People would not flock to volunteer in a place that wasn’t treating its wards with care and that was not well run. The staff was beyond patient with my repeated visits and questions.
I found looking for a new companion following the death of one of my 2 cats stressful and draining: all these sad stories of cats, young and old, leaving me with helpless feelings at not being able to save them, especially the sick, older ones, were difficult to bear. I was still very much reeling from the recent loss of my beloved companion to cancer. But Debbie and Diane responded to endless questions and were candid about the information known about each rescue.
The shelter is clearly designed to maximize the happiness of the wards, with plenty of space, and some outdoor protected spaces.
I will try and continue to support the shelter in any way I can. This was an intense experience because of my own circumstances, but Debbie, Diane, and all the good-​natured volunteers helped steer me on and I was able to find an adorable little cat, full of affection. I am very grateful for the shelter and I hope it continues to thrive and accomplish as beautifully as it does now its worthwhile mission.

After two years of wanting to a adopt a cat, we finally decided to visit shelters once we moved to Boston. A Unilocal search of nearby shelters led us straight to the Ellen Gifford Cat Shelter. I am so grateful that it did! Visiting this shelter restored some of my faith in humanity and in people’s kindness and benevolence toward helpless animals. This shelter has spacious, well-​designed, and clean facilities. There’s even a large fenced-​in area outside where the more hyper and active cats can exercise. Feral cats have a special sanctuary in their own outdoor space. The staff was friendly, helpful, and serious about taking care of the cats. One volunteer walked around with us for over 45 minutes. She was knowledgeable about each cat and listened patiently as we went over a laundry list of questions. Most importantly, the cats seemed very happy and well taken care of. The shelter carefully monitors the cats’ behavior and places them in a part of the shelter where they will be comfortable. For example, some easily-​frightened cats have their own spaces where other cats won’t bother them. I didn’t see one cat who looked uncomfortable or neglected.
Yes, the adoption fee is $ 150. I would have happily paid more; it was worth every penny. The cat we adopted was up-​to-​date with shots, medications, and veterinary check-​ups. A little steeper adoption fee is definitely worth it for a cat who is as healthy as he possibly can be. I also hope that my adoption fee can be used to help keep the other cats healthy and happy. I was especially happy to meet one cat for whom the shelter had paid to have a corrective eye surgery. That level of care is unmatched by over-​crowded shelters with cheaper adoption fees.
Thank you, Ellen Gifford Cat Shelter! We love our Finn so much and wouldn’t trade him for the world!

It’s a very impressive facility. There aren’t any cages, just smaller rooms for different groups of cats. Some cats are kept in kennels (dog-​sized, not cat-​sized) because they don’t do well with other cats, or because of health reasons. There are large fenced-​in areas so cats can safely go outside. They are helpful in directing you towards your perfect cat. As a 23-​year old, I knew that an older cat would be wisest for me, since I didn’t want to sign up for a 17-​year commitment on a cat. I had seen Bean on the website and was strongly encouraged to meet him. I loved him.
I completed the online application and they checked my references. A week after meeting Bean at the shelter, I picked him up. He settled in nicely and they called me a week or two later to check on Bean. Now, a few months later, Bean is still the best decision I’ve made in a while. Because Gifford gave Bean such excellent care while he was theirs, I’m not worried about any sneaky health problems. He had dental surgery while he was with them, so my adoption fees were really nothing compared to how much it would have cost to get a Craigslist cat healthy.
They have sent me newsletters since my adoption, and it’s sweet to see other cats do well. I’ve seen some cats get extensive surgeries to get them fit for adoption. I feel confident that any money I give to this facility will go to some in-​need animals.
In brief: Check out Gifford.

First, let me say I foster cats and kittens for them so I see a small part of the business end.
On that note… it is a very high quality and very clean business. I have been to other shelters and been scared to go inside whether it was because of the smell, the chaos or cleanliness but this place is the best. It is situated in a development, in a house. The back is the office which has a few cages for cats that need some extra care. It is clean, orderly and well stocked with food, litter, toys and other items from donations.
The basement has three rooms, segregated by kind of cat and the care it needs. It is clean and does not feel like a basement at all.
The building out back is where they keep the adoptable cats. There is a large run covered with chicken wire so cats can romp outside. Inside, there is a large open area with tons of windows, toys and a clean environment for the cats to play and sleep in. Everyone there has a fondness for cats and desires to place strays and abandoned cats. They go above and beyond and Debbie, who runs it, is a fierce advocate and protector of our furry friends.
As a foster, they have provided us with everything. Even vet care when the pregnant mama cat needed a check up. Items I buy myself I save the receipts to write off later.
If we find the need to adopt a second cat, this is the first place I would go. And while the adoption fee may seem high, I have seen how much a vet bill, food, litter, medicine and toys can cost. That fee does not cover even a portion of how much is spent to care for these cats.

I love the fact that Gifford is a no kill animal shelter. I got my first cat here after having grown up with many of them. They were great, we visited many times to get a good sense of the different cats. We thought we found a perfect match then decided to keep looking. The staff there were great and totally fine with us spending a long time finding a good one. Finally we decided on a lovely cat. I will always go back there when I want my next cat.

When my husband told me he heard of a great no-​kill cat shelter in Brighton through work, we both agreed that we had to visit. It’s not often that you find a place that supports, loves, and cares for their cats despite their «adoptableness», but you can tell that the staff and volunteers of the Gifford Cat Shelter really care.
First things first – this is a great open concept cat shelter. The cats are not put in cages, but rather given a small annex-​like house to roam around freely, in addition to access to a closed-​in outdoor space to run and play in when they feel like getting some fresh air. I almost missed the shelter at first because it looked like a giant house, but it seemed like the cats there were pretty happy and comfortable because of it. I laughed when I walked into the house and literally saw cats walking on the rafters and climbing up the walls! It was refreshing to see them have a lot of space to move in, toys to play with, and ample food and water to consume.
Second, the shelter has some really attentive and friendly volunteers and staff. I stopped by with my husband 2 or 3 times before adopting my kitty from here, and they were always so knowledgeable about the cats health, personality, likes, dislikes, etc. They made us feel very comfortable, and never rushed us when we continued to ask question after question.
Third, the cat selection is really diverse. Since this a no-​kill shelter, there were definitely some «lifers» that would be more suitable for more experienced cat owners. For example, some of the cats didn’t care for people, didn’t like being petted, were more shy, had FIV, etc., which made them less adoptable to many people. However, if you are looking for a challenge, or are very patient with cats, you may find your match here. That’s not to say, however, that they didn’t have friendly, outgoing, loveable cats too. They had plenty of those in all sizes, ages, and colors, but you have to act quick to get a cat if you like one because they seem to go quickly.
Fourth, the adoption process here is thorough, to say the least, but this helps the shelter insure that the cats are going to a home that will truly be a good match. We had to submit an application, do a short phone interview with a staff member, and have 2 references called on our behalf. Also, the $ 130 adoption fee covered many basic services such as spaying, shots, etc. We were guided through the process quickly and smoothly, and overall we had a wonderful experience. We are now the proud owners of a beautiful 1 year old calico cat who has been a huge blessing to our family.

This is the most amazing shelter I have ever seen. I have been volunteering here for two years and am amazed at how much everyone here really cares about cats. They do not euthanize for space, it is cageless and all the cats walk around and have room to run and play, and they all get medical treatment that they need. I adopted a cat from here 2 years ago, right when I started volunteering, and she is the sweetest, most darling cat.
They take adoptions very seriously here, and will call your references and check up on your ability to take care of a cat. They really believe you should be able to provide a «forever home», and if you can’t commit to that, then you shouldn’t adopt. I am so happy this shelter is getting better known. Please consider adopting from here or supporting them, it’s a wonderful place!

I found the Gifford Cat Shelter online and decided to check it out. Both my brother and myself were interested in adopting cats whose background included being a stray or abandoned and in were in need of a good home. My brother bonded with a energetic black cat named Liberty. Debbie was helpful in directing him to Liberty and felt this cat would be a good fit and she was right. Liberty is thriving in his new home and is very content. I chose a timid Tabby female who recently had kittens and was a stray. I renamed her Tabby and after 2 months of TLC she is sleeping on the bed at night!
the Gifford shelter is a hidden treasure to cat lovers who want to make a difference.

I fostered a cat here once to make sure it wouldn’t spray once it left the shelter (turns out it didn’t, it just needed some time away from being around so many cats). My experience in seeing the cats on the beds and all was just heart-​warming. I wish all shelter cats could live like this. Still, cats deserve individual homes eventually, so please adopt if you can provide a loving, responsible home for one. Better yet, adopt two, so they’ll have a playmate. They are very meticulous about caring for the cats with vet check ups every 6 months or sooner, and I also encourage those interested in it to ask about becoming a foster home if they’re taking applications. You won’t regret making a new friend. Cats never judge you, and they’re great comfort when you’ve been having a tough day.

I was very impressed with the Ellen Gifford Shelter and found the perfect cat to adopt. Like a few other reviews said, the cats are in a very nice open area with lots of toys so you really get a sense of the cats’ personalities. At other shelters we visited, the cats were generally very shy and kept in cages so it was hard to tell which ones would be friendly once you got them home.
My initial reaction to the application process was that it was over the top (two non-​relative references are required and they will call them) but after seeing how much energy goes into the care of their cats I completely understand they want to screen for good homes.
The volunteers are great and we got a lot of good information and advice. If you are looking to adopt a cat in the Boston area this is your best bet, make sure you do your homework first and show that you understand the responsibility of adoption.

I adopted my kitty from this shelter a lil more than a year ago. The ladies here were extremely helpful here. I couldn’t be more thankful! During the cat search, I went to other shelters as well, but this one outshone the others by far.
The staff spent time to help me get the right cat for me and slowly talked thru everything I would need to make the transition home seamless. They knew every cat so personally. They also called me to check in on me during the 1^st month just to see how things were going. It’s so great that the cats here aren’t stuck in small metal cages. They live in these rooms that have many toys in them in addition to large windows. Even though it’s a shelter, they definately make the cats feel as though they were in a home. I LOVE this shelter!!!

This shelter is amazing. The Ellen M. Gifford Sheltering Home is possibly the oldest animal shelter in the country. They used to serve all animals, but now focus on cats due to zoning regulations in the area.
They are no kill with a very quick turnover. They take great care of the cats and take adoption very seriously. Super cute neighborhood and friendly staff. Clean shelter that caters to the individual needs of each cat. No cages. All runs in a older brownstone and a cozy main house. The volunteers really get to know the personality of each animal.