Why You MUST Spay/Neuter Your Cat

Did you know that if everyone spayed or neutered their cat, the need for organizations like this one would disappear?

Consider that in 7 year's time, one female cat and its young can produce 420,000 kittens! In the U.S., 70,000 puppies and kittens are born every day compared to only 10,000 people so you can see why almost 8,000,000 dogs and cats are killed each year. There just aren't enough homes to go around. Spaying and neutering would make those sad numbers so much less.

In some ways, the animals that are humanely destroyed are the lucky ones. For many, a slow painful death comes from living in the street from starvation, disease or torture at the hands of cruel people. We believe each cat deserves a chance and our residents can stay with us indefinitely. Our goal, however, is a happy, loving home for each kitty.

If you decide you want to adopt a kitty but aren't sure about some things, perhaps some of the information we have here will be of help to you in your decision.

F A Qs and Some Helpful Suggestions

Q. Are there any special arrangements I will need to make for my Cat?

A. If you’ve never shared your life with a cat, there are probably things you need to know before you bring your new friend home with you. For instance, your home will likely need some form of “cat proofing” before the big day. For example, possible hazards to be on guard for are open, unscreened windows and certain house plants.

Q. What kinds of houseplants can be a problem for my Cat?

A. You can click here for a complete list of plants to avoid when you have cats in the family.

Q. What's the best time for me to bring my new Kitty home with me?

A.The best time to bring your cat home is a quiet time, meaning not on a holiday when you might have a house full of company. Your new friend will be nervous (wouldn’t you be?) about moving to a new home to be part of a new family, so choose a relatively quiet time to introduce your life to your Cat such as the beginning of the weekend or even better, a vacation you’ll be spending at home.

Q. How should I introduce my Cat to my house?

A. Put your cat in a room by itself at first with plenty of fresh water and food and of course, a litter box. Leave the carrier in the room with her so she can retreat to what she knows until she adjusts to her new home. Allow lots of time for your cat to explore and get used to the new environment; smells and sounds. When you think the cat is adjusting and becoming curious about what lays beyond the door, begin to leave the door open so she can explore. Leave the door to “her” room open so she can retreat to what she knows if she becomes frightened!

Q. Will my Cat need special toys?

A. Cats love to play, cat toys do not have to be expensive. Some of the best toys of all are simply small, crumpled pieces of aluminum foil that your cat will bat around and chase for hours. Your local pet store has a supply of fun items that are designed specifically for cats, but be sure to avoid toys with strings or removable small objects. In many ways, cats are like small children and whatever they pick up goes right into their mouths, so watch out for choking hazards!

Q. What about scratching that Cats like to do?

A. Something for your Kitty to scratch on is a must but like the toys, it does not have to be expensive to be effective. There are inexpensive, corrugated cardboard mats cats also enjoy. One of our cats loves a piece of firewood to scratch on.

Q. What about going outdoors?

A. Many cats love to be outdoors but we absolutely do not recommend allowing your cat to roam outdoors unsupervised. Many of our residents were rescued from the dangers of traffic, dogs, diseases, weather extremes and cruel people. Keeping close tabs on your cat also lessens the chance of her becoming lost.