Bermuda SPCA Hosting “Desperate Housecats”

From July 5 through July 16, the Bermuda SPCA is hosting “Desperate Housecats,” an adoption drive to encourage animal lovers to come and adopt the adult cats in the shelter’s care.

The shelter is currently at capacity with over 40 cats of all shapes, ages, colours and sizes and a waiting list of cats requiring their care.

“We have reduced the adoption fee to just $25 per cat over the age of 1 year, and will offer a two for one deal for those who just can’t make up their mind,” said Deborah Titterton Narraway, Interim executive Director of the Bermuda SPCA.

“It costs the shelter approximately $1,280 per cat for a four month period which includes having all cats have been spayed/neutered, vet checked, vaccinated and wormed, feed, and litter.

“The usual adoption criteria will apply; photo ID and permission letter from landlord will be required.”

“Like most people, we love kittens, they’re so teeny and cute, but we have just as much love for their more mature counterparts. Older cats often get overlooked in our shelter, it is such a shame as they’re such amazing companions, and in a lot of cases, a better fit for your family than a kitten would be.

“The Bermuda SPCA is asking people to consider the differences between cats and kittens. Many available adult cats are barely out of kittenhood themselves, they still have plenty of spunk and energy – they’re just a bit more mature. That’s a good thing.

A spokesperson said, “Here are 10 reasons why you may want to adopt an adult cat brought to us by the MEOW Cat Rescue:

• 1. What you see is what you get. Adult cats already know who they are. Kittens are undeniably cute, but you never know what the future holds, how large they may get, what their personality will ultimately be, etc. An adorable little kitten will be an adult in the blink of an eye.

• 2. Adult cats aren’t as “chewsy.” Kittens have a tendency to chew things, lots of things. Whether teething or just exploring bits of the world around them, kittens chew on shoes, the corners of books, ear lobes and fingers, carpet tassels, electrical cords, drapery strings, plants, and much, much more. Most adult cats don’t chew inappropriately at all.

• 3. If you have an older cat in your home and are looking for a friend for him or her, another adult cat may be the best choice. Kittens can be too playful and may upset your cat instead of providing companionship. A kitten may cause your resident cat to be more annoyed than amused.

• 4. After a long day at the office, you may just want to come home and curl up with your furry friend–but most kittens prefer an action packed evening–lots of tousling, frolicking, and plenty of running and jumping. An adult cat will greet you at the door and be more than happy to curl up and watch your favourite shows on TV. They’ve already learned about the unconditional love thing.

• 5. Adult cats may sleep at the foot of your bed, under the bed or in a cosy spot somewhere else in the house, while a kitten will most likely run around all night, doing anything possible to wake you up for more games. Adult cats are generally happy to sleep when you do and don’t try to attack your toes through the blankets in the middle of the night.

• 6. Adult cats won’t be climbing up your leg or your curtains, they won’t be swinging from your chandeliers, knocking down knick knacks or just running full speed ahead for no good reason.

• 7. Adult cats are usually a better choice for families with small children. Kittens often play rough and are constantly underfoot. They’re sharp–they can’t help it, but kittens are all teeth and claws. Generally speaking, adult cats are more mellow, and often more patient with young children. The experience should be a good one for both the cat and the child. Ask to meet the shelter’s best “kid cats.”

• 8. Adult cats require less attention and supervision. They’re quiet companions. They have well-developed manners, use the litter box and the scratching post without constant reminders.

• 9. Many adult cats end up in shelters due to no fault of their own. Separated from their loved ones, surrounded by other cats, confined, confused, and sometimes frightened, many are emotionally devastated by their misfortune. Sadly, most people gravitate toward the cute, bouncy, big-eyed kittens. Older cats sit by and watch, as one loving family after another passes them over for a cute kitten. Adopting an adult cat is a way to say to a deserving animal “I believe in you.”

• 10. For the abandoned, forgotten, and heartbroken adult cats, you just might be their last chance to have the love and warmth of a home where they can live out their years in comfort. When properly cared for, cats often live well into their late teens or longer. Typically, they will remain active and even playful throughout most of their lives. Once a cat adjusts to a new home where they can feel safe and secure again, they’ll offer years of faithful companionship and unconditional love.

“As a charity, the Bermuda SPCA is extremely grateful for the support the community provides. If you are not in a position to adopt a cat, here are two ways the community can help: donate supplies, including Whiskas Dry Cat Food [Kitten or Adult], Friskies canned Cat Food Pate, cat litter [non-clumping], climbing trees for cats, toys for the cats, laundry detergent, or make a monetary donation, which can be done through the shelter’s website.

“The Bermuda Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals [SPCA] was founded in 1919 and is a Bermuda Registered Charity No. 86 as well as a US 501©[3] not-for-profit.

“Their objectives are to: provide effective, lawful means for the prevention of cruelty to animals, promote the education of the general public on the care and wellbeing of all animals, encourage and promote kindness to animals. For more information visit www.SPCA.bm, email info@spca.bm or call 236-7333.“

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