June is National Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, a time when many kittens are born and often end up in animal shelters. The Wake County Animal Center is hosting a special adoption event exclusively for cats, allowing the public to adopt any cat over six months old for just $5. This initiative aims to find homes for older kittens and adult cats, making room for the influx of younger kittens.
"Spaying and neutering are among the most effective methods to reduce pet overpopulation," said Susan Evans, vice chair, Wake County Board of Commissioners. "These procedures help control the population and decrease the number of cats and kittens that end up in shelters. Spaying or neutering feral or community cats can break the cycle of unwanted kittens."
Right now, there are 17 cats and eight kittens available for adoption on the adoption floor. There are another three cats and six kittens in foster care.
Kittens cannot be made available for adoption until they are at least two pounds and eight weeks old. This is because all kittens must be spayed or neutered before adoption, and this procedure cannot be performed until they meet the required weight and age. The public should not bring litters of kittens to the shelter unless they are in immediate danger, distress or showing signs of illness or malnutrition. Many people mistakenly believe kittens are abandoned if they find them alone, but the mother is often out searching for food and will return shortly. The appropriate age to separate a kitten from its mother is eight weeks. Kittens younger than this are at risk of falling sick due to lack of proper nutrition.
"Pets left behind or born outside face difficult conditions," said Dr. Jennifer Federico, director of the Animal Center. "Without regular access to food, water and shelter, life on the streets is a constant struggle for stray cats and dogs. Many become ill, spread preventable diseases and are at risk of injuries and parasites. We work tirelessly to rescue these homeless pets; however, due to limited space, we can only keep them in kennels for short periods. Shelter pets need loving families. By opening your home to a shelter animal, you save lives and create space for others in need."
Regular adoption fees are $45 for cats under five years old and $15 for older cats. When you adopt a pet from the Wake County Animal Center, they are spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up to date on their annual vaccines, which saves you on veterinary bills.
Ready to adopt? Check out our adoption gallery or come by and see the sweet faces for yourself! The shelter is open for adoptions daily from noon to 6 p.m. seven days a week. The Wake County Animal Center is located at 820 Beacon Lake Drive, near the intersection of I-440 and New Bern Ave. in Raleigh.
