The number of homeless cats has become alarmingly high and more cats end up in shelters, on the streets or are being put to sleep. Here are 4 ways you can help homeless cats, including adoption or supporting a pet charity.
1. Adoption
If you would like a cat, or would love to get one or several companions for your existing pet, adopt a cat from a shelter. Homeless cats can be found in shelters or at animal hospitals, and there are numerous rescue groups that care for these cats. Homeless cats get vaccines and can be as loving as any other cat; all they need is a home.
Adoption is the best way to help homeless cats. Given the high number of homeless cats and the lack of space in shelters, a lot of cats are put to sleep. You can also spread the word among your friends and family and ask them to adopt a cat ,or whenever you hear of someone looking for a cat, suggest adoption. You can also opt for temporary adoption, for the holidays or for a few weeks.
2. Donation
There are a lot of charities that deal with the rescuing of homeless cats. If you're not able to adopt a cat, a financial gift can save a cat’s life. Your money can go towards vaccinations, neutering and may provide a shelter for homeless cats. You should also consider donating cat food, cat litter, litter boxes, pet carriers or other supplies that can be used in shelters. Check out a list of needed items at your local animal shelter.
3. Volunteer
If you don’t have the means to support financially homeless cat charities, you can give a hand as a volunteer. There are never enough volunteers, and you can do something you like and help homeless cats. Volunteering can make you feel better and your effort will be much appreciated. The volunteer work may involve office work, or cleaning and grooming cats. You may also opt to foster a cat or several cats until they get adopted.
4. Spay or Neuter Your Cat
To prevent the increase of the number of homeless cats, you should spay or neuter your cat. In this way, your cat won’t have more kittens that will need homes.
Spaying and neutering is not a difficult procedure, and will not create health problems for your cat. Most pet owners fear that if they neuter their cat, the cat will become obese, when in fact, obesity is not due to neutering, but to overeating. Neutering can have a lot of benefits and your cat can become more affectionate, stop spraying and become more obedient.
If you are a cat lover and you would like to help homeless cats, you can offer your help in different ways: adoption, financial support, cat supplies or volunteer work. Contact the animal shelters in your area and start making a difference.