The state's three centres are overflowing with purring felines and are offering families the chance to adopt a cat, aged over 12 months, for free.

Launceston RSPCA care centre manager and state operations co-ordinator Lorraine Hamilton said her shelter had 23 cats up for adoption.

``There are so many reasons to adopt a cat for Valentines Day,'' Mrs Hamilton said.

``They won't wilt after three days and it's more than a bunch of flowers - it's an addition to the family.

``This is a gift that can make this Valentine's Day be remembered forever.''

The Launceston shelter will extend its opening hours and will be open from 8am to 6pm.

All cats will be desexed, microchipped and vaccinated.

Mrs Hamilton reminded potential adoptive parents that all the items to make a kitty's house a home - a collar, feeding bowl and sleeping basket - were available to buy from the shelter shop.

 RSPCA's Launceston care centre will continue the Valentine's Day celebrations into the weekend.

It will host a Valentine's Day dance party on Saturday from 8pm at Archers Manor, Newnham. For more information call 6332 8210.