Love at First Meow: Capturing the Magic of Cattails Adoption Events in Manhattan, KS
There is a specific kind of energy at a pet adoption event and the Cattails organization in Manhattan, KS, has it all. It’s a mix of hope, a little bit of nervous tail-twitching, and the quiet, electric moment when a human and a cat realize they’ve found “their person.”
Recently, I had the privilege of spending some time with Cattails, a local non-profit right here in Manhattan, KS, that is doing incredible work for our feline friends. I headed over to Petco to document their weekly adoption event and later stopped by the Sunflower Pet Cat Cafe to visit the lucky fosters currently lounging in style while they wait for their forever homes.
The Heart Behind the Mission: Natalie & The Volunteers
If you want to see a local hero in action, watch Natalie Young, the founder of Cattails. Between coordinating volunteers and answering a million questions from prospective adopters, her passion for these animals is palpable. Cattails isn’t a shelter with a storefront; it’s a dedicated network of foster homes, which means every cat I photographed has been living in a real home, receiving real love, and waiting for a real family.
I watched as the volunteers expertly navigated the “get to know you” phase between kittens and kids, and I was lucky enough to be there for the best part of the job: Two adoptions happened while I was there! There is nothing quite like capturing that first official “family photo” as a cat begins their new chapter.
The backbone of Cattails: Natalie and her incredible team of volunteers making matches that last a lifetime.
Pet photography is all about the eyes. This sweet soul is currently looking for a sunny window to call their own.
The moment you know. Witnessing a connection spark at the Manhattan Petco adoption event.
Coffee and Cats: The Sunflower Pet Cat Cafe
The day before the excitement at Petco, I returned to the Sunflower Pet Cat Cafe to take more pictures of the kitties waiting to be adopted. If you haven’t been, it’s exactly what it sounds like: a cozy spot to grab a drink and hang out with foster cats from Cattails in a relaxed, “lifestylish” environment.
Capturing the cats here gave me a chance to show off their true personalities—the zoomies, the mid-day naps, and the curious head-tilts. As a photographer, I love the challenge of pet portraits. You have to be quick, you have to be patient, and you have to be okay with a little bit of cat hair on your lens.
My Heart is in Local Rescue
Supporting organizations like Cattails isn’t just a “work project” for me—it’s a personal mission. My own home is a little brighter (and a lot more playful) thanks to a tiny Christmas Eve miracle I adopted from Cattails at Petco in 2025. Adding that sweet kitten to our family was the perfect reminder of why these adoption events matter so much.
Beyond my own pets, my roots in the Manhattan rescue community run deep. For six years, I served as a volunteer photographer for the Riley County Humane Society, a journey that was even featured in Manhattan Magazine back in 2020. Whether I’m documenting the incredible work here at home or preparing for my upcoming visit to the Cat Cafe of Lawrence, my goal is always the same: to use my lens to help these animals find the “forever” they deserve.
Why Quality Pet Portraits Matter
Whether I’m photographing a newborn or a tuxedo cat, my goal is the same: Connection. For a rescue like Cattails, a high-quality photo can be the difference between a cat being scrolled past and a cat being adopted. A great portrait shows their spirit, their quirks, and their beauty.
If you’re looking to add a four-legged member to your family, please check out Cattails. And if your current “furbaby” is overdue for a professional portrait that captures their unique “cattitude,” I’d love to help.
Ready to support local?
- Adopt: Check out the current residents at the Manhattan Petco and Sunflower Pet Cat Cafe.
- Volunteer: Reach out to Natalie and the team via their About Page.
- Donate: Every little bit helps keep these kitties fed and healthy!
