There are over 30 known feral cat colonies or clowders, some with over 50 cats, now living in the Comox Valley. Feral means “gone wild” however most of these cats have been “born” in the wild and as adults cannot be domesticated.
Left uncontrolled, these animals produce a number of problems including, property damage, strong and foul odors from urine, feces and the spraying of unneutered male cats to mark their territories. By not receiving any veterinary care, they also pose health problems to both humans and family pets by spreading disease.
Kitty Cat P.A.L. Society is one charitable, volunteer organization that is trying to do something about the problem. Their mandate is in their name … Prevent A Litter.
Their Trap-Neuter-Return program humanly traps these cats, has them evaluated for health issues and then sterilized by veterinarians before returning them to the wild. Kittens however are put up for adoption because they have not yet learned feral ways and can become family pets.
Three local pet stores, Bosley’s, Wagz and Woofy’s stepped forward in order to provide space for adoptions. What the Society had to come up with were veterinary grade cages to house these kittens.
Turning to the Foundation for help, they were provided with a grant that allowed them to purchase proper cages. “Without the grant these cages would not have been possible,” said Peter Williams, president of the Society. “It is the first time we have been able to provide a quality and safe environment for our cats.”
For more information about Kitty Cat PALS and the feral cat problem visit www.kittycatpals.com
Everyone benefits … The Comox Valley Community Foundation is an independent charitable organization created by and for the residents of the Comox Valley. Its primary purpose is dedicated to enriching the quality of life in the Comox Valley. Since 1998 the Foundation has disbursed over 1 million dollars in grants to support local charitable organizations. You too can help. Visit the Foundation’s website at www.cvcfoundation.org to find out how.
