It is rare that we have an overabundance of “empty” cat cages, but we have thankfully seen a decline in the number of cats coming through our doors. Promoting the importance of spaying and neutering, and also seeing that as many pets as possible are already altered before they are adopted, have made a huge difference.
In fact, we have been able to work with some of the other shelters when our numbers are low, so we can help ease the burden of an excess of cats and kittens in their shelters.
We feel that it is the “lucky ones” that actually have their start at our humane society. A cat’s life at the Central Aroostook Humane Society’s shelter is made to be as homelike and welcoming as possible. Stray cats and owner-released cats that are brought in are treated very well from when they come through the door until we find new homes for them.
There are many things that go on in the life of a cat entering the shelter. First, they are checked over for medical problems and to see if there might be broken bones. Strays can come in in various conditions, from being starved or abused to just being on their own for too long.
Generally, owner released cats are in good shape, have had their vaccinations and are well fed. Often we receive cats from folks who are leaving the area, or from families where someone has passed away and no one can take the cat. Often these are very sad situations for the family and for the cat that is being left behind.
Cats that are seriously ill and beyond the medical scope of the employees are taken to a veterinarian for treatment.
All new cats receive the usual vaccinations and they are dewormed. If cats who are owner surrendered have papers which show they have been vaccinated, then those cats are just dewormed. Pregnant cats go into the mothers’ room, which is kept very quiet for them so they can relax and give birth.
All cats have a private cage with a special bed, blanket and toys plus their own litter box. Mothers and babies are kept together as long as they need to be together. All cats stay with us indefinitely. We strive very hard to adopt every cat and kitten to a wonderful home.
Dry food is put into the cat dishes every day so they can eat whenever they wish. Pregnant female cats and cats who are underweight receive canned cat food, which they love. Treats are always available for our four-legged friends.
We are very mindful of socialization for the cats. Often we have volunteers who take the cats out of the cages, shut the door of the room and play with the cats. Children particularly enjoy this — and even more so if there is a litter of kittens needing socialization. Our cats are treated like guests thanks to our wonderful and caring staff.
Please consider giving a cat a permanent home with you. We have many available who would make wonderful pets.
State law requires anyone adopting an unaltered animal to leave a $100 check or cash, which is refundable once the cat or dog has been neutered or spayed. This must be done within four months of the adoption.
Please stop by the Central Aroostook Humane Society at 210 Cross St., Presque Isle, or check out our Facebook page.
Please be responsible: spay and neuter your pets.
Carolyn Cheney is on the Central Aroostook Humane Society board of directors.
