Quero Adotar: The Brazilian Project Changing the Lives of Cats — and Their New Families

Have you heard of @quero.adotar on Instagram? If you’re a cat lover (or simply someone who appreciates heartwarming rescue stories), get ready to fall in love with a project from Criciúma, Santa Catarina, Brazil, that’s truly making a  difference — one furry life at a time.

More than just an adoption page, Quero Adotar serves as a vital bridge between stray or abandoned cats and families eager to offer them a second chance filled with love, safety, and care. And the most inspiring part? The entire initiative runs without a physical shelter, or the backing of an official NGO — just the dedication of three women who’ve turned their own homes into temporary foster havens.

A Dream That Became a Mission

The project began with the unexpected passion of Laura Coan, who admits she didn’t realize how deeply she cared for the cause until the first rescue came into her life. "It was a wish I didn’t even know I had, but it grew when I realized I could actually change the lives of these cats," - Laura shares.

Joined by her friends Ticiana Marcello and Michelle Bonfante, Laura turned this dream into a daily mission. Together, the three of them manage everything — from  Instagram posts and rescue operations to vet visits, and careful adoption screenings.

Not a Shelter — But Three Foster Homes

Contrary to what many followers might assume, Quero Adotar is neither a formal NGO nor a physical shelter. Instead, the cats are cared for in the homes of these three women. "We don’t have a permanent space; it’s our own homes that host the cats while we search for responsible adopters," - Laura explains.

Ticiana currently dedicates an entire room in her house to around ten adult cats, most of whom were rescued from the streets. Michelle focuses on caring for kittens and nursing mother cats. Laura handles the administrative work and manages the Instagram account  but also steps in for emergency fosters when needed.

Some rescues became permanent residents — like Darwin, the very first cat they ever saved. After being attacked by a dog and left paraplegic, Darwin found safety and love in Laura’s care. "I took care of him for a while and just couldn’t let go," - she recalls.

Darwin

The Challenges Behind the Cute Photos

Of course, running a project like this comes with its own set of challenges. In an interview with CatSwoppr, Laura revealed that public awareness — or the lack thereof — is their biggest obstacle. "People don’t really know cats or understand their needs," - she explains. Misconceptions about feline care often lead to adoption withdrawals or returns.

Logistics and bureaucracy are also part of their daily reality. "Even though we’re not officially registered as an NGO, we do everything an NGO does," - Laura says. To make sure the cats end up in the right hands, potential adopters are asked to fill out detailed questionnaires — a crucial step to screen out those unprepared for the responsibility. "Those who are serious about adopting don’t mind answering our questions," - she adds.

The team is strict about pre-adoption checks: families must demonstrate financial stability to care for a pet, live in cat-safe homes or apartments, and ensure a secure environment — non-negotiables for a safe, lasting adoption.

Bruce

How They Keep the Project Alive

So how does Quero Adotar keep going? The answer: donations, partnerships, and a lot of creativity.

Instagram is their main tool to share each cat’s story, medical updates, and adoption successes. They’ve partnered with Floresta Agroshop Veterinary Clinic, a local vet that supports their rescue efforts.

Some followers also contribute in unexpected ways: one is a talented artist who paints realistic portraits of their rescue cats; others design custom mugs or help spread the word online.

The project’s visibility has grown far beyond what Laura ever imagined. "I thought we’d have 500, maybe 1,000 followers — not nearly 3,000!" - she says, visibly moved. "I’m so grateful for every single person who supports us."

Dreams for the Future

When asked about their ultimate goals, Laura laughs: "We still want to make it onto Fantástico!" — referring to Brazil’s most famous TV news show.

But there’s also a serious dream: having their own physical space, a real shelter where even more cats can be safe. "Of course money is the biggest obstacle — but we believe we’ll get there," - Laura says. A shelter would mean more rescues, better care, and a wider impact.

Dexter

A Final Message to Cat Lovers Everywhere

To their growing community of followers and fellow cat lovers, the message from Quero Adotar is simple: "Please keep believing in us, supporting us, and sharing our mission. It’s thanks to you that we’ve come this far," - Laura says with gratitude.

The project also highlights how crucial foster homes are for animal rescue — proving that you don’t need a big building or formal structure to save lives. "Without these foster homes, it would be impossible to give so many street cats a second chance," - Laura explains.

As for the cats themselves? "They feel like they’re from another planet — full of the most beautiful energy. All they need is some wet food, a little affection, and a warm bed on a cold day," - Laura smiles.

Quero Adotar is living proof that love, dedication, and personal effort can create real, lasting change — not only in the lives of rescued cats but also in the hearts of those who welcome them.

Want to Help?

Follow @quero.adotar on Instagram to meet their adorable cats, learn more about their rescue stories, and see how you can support this life-changing initiative. Whether by donating, fostering, or simply spreading the word — every little action makes a difference for these furry friends in need.