Quote Originally Posted by jazzcat
I think it would be best if you could be there with him while he adjusts especially if he is special needs. You may need some time to see what kind of adjustments you need to make in your house for him. He probably won't need any special things but I'd hate to find out the hard way. I would talk to the shelter, explain the situation and see if they would be willing to hold him for you (maybe you can go ahead with the adoption and payment).
I agree with Jazz cat. It's hard to bring a cat into a new environment and then have it's new meowmie go "poof" for a week - it's confusing enough being in a new place, but having the guardians change too, I'm afraid you might be asking for behavioral problems or a longer adjustment time than would be necessary.

Like others have said, explain your situation to the SPCA and perhaps they will work with you, hold Tripod and the orangie for you (I'm especially encouraging you to get the orangie ) until you can return to be with them full-time until they get acclimated to their new digs.