A local non-profit organization has seen an increase in the number of kittens and cats in need of 'furever homes' and hopes adoption events will see them taken care of.
Caregivers of Petrolia Ferals currently have about 50 kittens and adult cats in their care, who are staying at foster homes.
"This is definitely the busiest kitten season that we have seen in a long time, if not ever," said Team Coordinator Julie Medeiros. "It's difficult to pinpoint exactly why that's the case, but we do believe it's sort of a byproduct of COVID with people acquiring pets. Now, folks are out and about again, potentially people have let their pets go and they're not fixed so we're seeing them multiply in crazy numbers."
Medeiros said the organization recently trapped several pregnant feral cats and, had it not been for the community support, the cats would have had their litter outdoors, contributing to the feral cat population.
"We're really thankful for the support of donations, and food, and just general positive comments that encourage us to continue doing this work," she said.
Beginning June 3, the organization will host three adoption events at Pet Valu locations in Sarnia-Lambton. Dates and locations will be listed below.
Medeiros said at the time of the events, many of the kittens will be between seven and nine weeks old.
There is an adoption fee of $175, however, it includes a vet health check, spay or neuter when appropriate, rabies vaccine, deworming; as well as flea, tick, and ear mite treatments.
Some of the older cats will also be up for adoption during these events.
"They are not to be overlooked. We have some wonderful young adults that are looking for their 'furever homes' as well and we're very excited for the opportunity to help them find homes as well," Medeiros said.
Volunteers will be at the events to take applications. Medeiros said the goal is to have residents take their adopted kitten or cat home with them that day once applications are reviewed.
The adoption event will be held from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. during the dates listed below:
- June 3 - Pet Valu Corunna, located at 197 Hill St.
- June 10 - Pet Valu Lambton Mall, on London Road in Sarnia
- July 8 - Pet Valu Lakeshore, located at 1130 Lakeshore Rd. in Sarnia
