Why You Should Adopt, Not Shop - A Love Letter to Rescue Cats

If you’ve ever been loved by a rescue cat, you know they don’t just curl up in your lap - they crawl into your heart and never leave.

At Nine Lives Tribe, we’re proudly powered by rescue stories. Our art is inspired by the cats who were given a second chance… and gave us a hundredfold more in return. That’s why we believe deeply in one simple message:

Adopt. Don’t shop.

Here’s why it matters - and how it changed everything for us.

💔 Behind Every Rescue is a Second Chance

Thousands of cats in shelters across Australia and beyond are waiting for homes. Not because they’ve done anything wrong - but because life happened. Owners move, get sick, or simply don’t take responsibility. Kittens are born to unspayed strays. Older cats get passed over.

Buying from a breeder often fuels demand for “perfect pets,” while so many already-perfect cats are being overlooked or, heartbreakingly, euthanised due to overcrowding.

Billy & Tom: A Story That Changed Everything

When Billy and Tom were rescued by Project Underdog Rescue, they were 14 years old, unwell, and on the brink of being separated. I started fostering them - just for a few days, I thought. But there was no one else who could keep them together. They had been bonded their entire lives.

Then came the news that Billy had cancer and might only have weeks to live.

We couldn't let Tom lose his brother and be shuffled off to a new environment, so we officially adopted Tom and continued fostering Billy so they could be together - loved and safe - for however long he had.

That was nearly two years ago.

Billy is still here. Still defying the odds. Still the inspiration behind everything we create.

🧡 Rescue Cats Give You More Than You’ll Ever Expect

Adopted cats aren’t “damaged.” They’re survivors. They’ve lived through loss, abandonment, or uncertainty - and yet they still trust, love, and purr their way into your world.

They’re funny. Quirky. Independent. Wise beyond their years. And when you earn their affection? It’s magic.

What We Do at Nine Lives Tribe

Nine Lives Tribe was built to honour cats like Billy and Tom - and all the others still waiting for their forever homes.

That’s why:

- A portion of profits from every print supports animal rescue
- We tell real rescue stories through our collections
- We celebrate every kind of cat - floofy, grumpy, goofy, and wise

When you buy from us, you're not just supporting a small business. You're helping shine a light on the beauty of rescue.

💬 Thinking of Adopting?

There are amazing cats in shelters right now - seniors, bonded pairs, kittens, and everything in between. If you’re considering bringing a cat into your life, check out your local shelter or rescue organisation. You just might meet your Billy or Tom.

And if you already have a rescue? Give them an extra treat today - they’re the best kind of cat.