With Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) receiving 57 kittens (1 September - 30 October) so far during 'kitten season', we're encouraging community members to adopt a furry friend rather than buy from a breeder.
Although cats reproduce year-round, kitten season kicks in when the days get longer, the weather becomes warmer and roaming female cats (both owned and stray) that aren't desexed come on heat.
A cat and her mate can produce two litters each year, with usually three to five kittens from each litter surviving. Over four years, each new cat can repeat this cycle with numbers growing to more than 2,107 cats.
Unwanted litters and pregnant cats, including mothers that are barely out of kittenhood themselves, are dropped into GAWS by members of the public or by the City's Animal Management officers every day.
In fact, between 1 September - 30 November last year, a total of 273 cats and 105 kittens came through the shelter's doors during kitten season.
Kittens are available for adoption for $235 or $410 for special breeds and will be desexed, microchipped and checked over by a vet.
This annual season is also a reminder for the community to get their cats desexed and rethink letting them roam , with the average cat roaming up to 300 kilometres per year.
These measures help to prevent unwanted litters, support the health of female cats, reduce pressure on our shelters and protect our native wildlife.
In support of GAWS' discounted cat desexing until 12 December, we are offering City of Greater Geelong residents who take up the promotion with free pet registrations.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj
Kitten season is an extremely busy time for GAWS.The team at GAWS are doing a fantastic job ensuring dozens of kittens and mother cats are healthy, well-fed and find a loving and safe forever home.
Please consider giving a cat a second chance and help to alleviate shelter overcrowding by adopting from GAWS instead of purchasing one from a breeder.
If you already have a cat, remember that you can help to prevent overpopulation through desexing and containment.
Cats can start breeding as early as four or five months old so it's imperative that we all do our bit to break this cycle.
GAWS CEO Helen Cocks
Both the on-site shelter and in-home foster program are currently inundated with cats in need of loving forever homes.We encourage anyone who has been considering a feline companion to visit GAWS and adopt. We have cats of various ages, from six months and older, to suit all types of homes, from playful youngsters to older cats looking for a comfortable retirement. Our friendly staff are on hand to help you find the perfect companion for your lifestyle.
Not only will you gain a new family member, you'll also be giving a cat a second chance at a happy life and making space for more animals who need our help.
Current cat owners can also make a big difference. Desexing your pet helps keep them healthy, prevents unwanted litters, and reduces pressure on our already crowded shelters.
