Knoxville, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – Visitors to Zoo Knoxville’s annual Halloween celebration will have an opportunity to do more than enjoy festive activities this year. They may also find a new furry family member.
Zoo Knoxville and Young-Williams Animal Center have partnered to bring adoptable cats to the zoo during the popular Boo! at the Zoo event throughout October.
The cats will be featured at the Black Cat Exhibit located in the Pilot Flying J Wee Play Adventure area of the zoo. Organizers say the exhibit will be open Thursday through Sunday during the event, giving guests a chance to meet cats currently seeking permanent homes.
Adoption Opportunity During Halloween Event
Boo! at the Zoo runs from Oct. 3 through Oct. 30, with activities scheduled from 5:30 p.m. until 9 p.m.
While the exhibit is themed around black cats for the Halloween season, organizers note that not every cat available for adoption will be black.
“Every cat is looking for a home,” the zoo said in promoting the partnership.
The effort gives Young-Williams an opportunity to introduce adoptable pets to thousands of visitors attending one of Knoxville’s most popular seasonal events.
How the Adoption Process Works
Individuals interested in adopting a cat can meet the animals at the exhibit and complete an adoption interest form.
Zoo officials say adoptions will be finalized through Young-Williams Animal Center, which will complete the standard adoption process and help match pets with appropriate families.
The partnership aims to raise awareness about pet adoption while helping shelter animals find loving homes.
Supporting Shelter Animals
Young-Williams Animal Center serves as Knox County’s animal resource center and regularly works to place dogs, cats and other animals in permanent homes.
By bringing adoptable cats into a family-friendly event environment, organizers hope to increase visibility for shelter pets and encourage responsible adoption.
The Black Cat Exhibit also helps challenge common myths surrounding black cats and highlights the need for adoptions throughout the year.
What’s Next
Visitors attending Boo! at the Zoo this October can stop by the Black Cat Exhibit Thursday through Sunday to meet available cats and learn more about the adoption process. Organizers encourage anyone considering a new pet to complete an adoption interest form and work with Young-Williams Animal Center to finalize the adoption.

Zoo Knoxville, Young-Williams Team Up for Cat Adoptions During Boo! at the Zoo (WVLT)







