NBSPCA launches new campaign to encourage New Brunswickers to adopt a cat 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Aug. 14, 2024 

Fredericton, N.B. – The New Brunswick SPCA (NBSPCA) is launching a campaign called ​“There’s No Place Like Home” to help address the growing number of cats and kittens in the care of animal shelters across the province. 

Currently, around 900 cats are awaiting adoption in New Brunswick shelters, which continues to rise, as the number of cats in need far exceeds the number being adopted. While shelters provide a safe haven for the animals in their care, the NBSPCA strives to see all pets in safe, loving and responsible homes. 

Lesley Rogers, executive director of the NBSPCA, said cats are arriving from many different sources, but the main strain on shelters is unwanted or abandoned litters of kittens. 

“We had a relatively mild winter season, and the warmer weather has played a role in the higher number of litters cats are having,” Rogers said. ​“Shelters are used to ​‘kitten season,’ but this time period is now extending into many months of the year. That’s why it’s so crucial that every kitten is spayed or neutered.” 

Rogers said shelters are doing their best to keep up with the growing demand, but they are struggling due to the ever-increasing number of cats and kittens in need. As part of ​“There’s No Place Like Home,” the NBSPCA is reminding the public to help ease the strain on shelters by ensuring their cats are sterilized before they start reproducing. 

“We encourage all New Brunswickers to adopt their cats from a shelter or rescue that includes spaying or neutering pets as part of the adoption fee,” Rogers said. ​“Typically, this is the most affordable option for pet families. It’s important to understand that ​‘free’ kittens are never really free.” 

Low-income pet families that already have a cat that they cannot afford to have spayed or neutered may be able to access support from the NBSPCA’s Happy Tails Fund. The program has recently launched and offers limited availability, but the NBSPCA hopes to expand services across the province over the coming months with the help of additional veterinarian partners. Low-income pet families or veterinarians looking for more information can email tracym@​nbspca.​ca or happytails@​nbspca.​ca.

In addition to an increase in unwanted kitten litters, the NBSPCA has seen a rise in the number of lost cats, which are taking up additional shelter resources. Members of the public are asked to take necessary precautions to keep their cats safe at home. Along with having them spayed or neutered, cat owners should have their pets microchipped as soon as possible and keep their registered contact information updated. 

“In a perfect world, every cat would get the forever home they deserve,” Rogers said. ​“We know that the stray population isn’t going away anytime soon, but there are simple steps every pet owner can take to reduce the number of strays in the future. The more cat parents pitch in, the more cats and kittens we can save.” 

To adopt a cat or kitten, contact your local shelter.

About New Brunswick SPCA

Founded in 1881, New Brunswick SPCA (NBSCPA) is the only provincewide organization mandated to enforce animal protection laws. A dedicated team of 15 Animal Protection Officers is vested with the authority under the SPCA Act of New Brunswick to investigate and, if necessary, lay charges, seize animals, or recommend court orders to persons suspected of abuse and cruelty to animals. 

The NBSPCA is a registered charity that exists to provide provincewide leadership in the humane treatment of animals. We enforce relevant legislation, ensure shelter for neglected or abused domesticated animals and agricultural animals, and provide public education and advocacy to empower New Brunswickers to help animals live long and healthy lives.

Media Contact: Alex Davis, alex@​ccgoodwin.​ca, 506−259−4081.