The BC SPCA in the Kootenays is overwhelmed by cats, taking in 203 so far this year from rural properties where outdoor populations have multiplied. Its Castlegar and Cranbrook shelters are stretched, with waitlists to surrender animals.
The West Kootenay branch has taken in 145 cats from 12 properties this year, with more awaiting help. The East Kootenay branch has taken in 58 cats from five properties and is working with others. The strain has created waitlists to surrender individual animals.
“No one gets a cat with the intention of having 20, but they can breed quickly,” says Danielle Jackman, Manager, BC SPCA West Kootenay.
“We’re seeing a lot of rural properties who started out with a manageable number of outdoor cats, and within a few years they have dozens.”
Female cats can have kittens at four months old. Depending on heat cycles, health and nutrition, they can have two to four litters a year, averaging three to five kittens each.
“We only have so much capacity in our shelters, so we often have to stagger intakes,” explains Angela Mather, Manager, BC SPCA East Kootenay.
“Most animals coming from these situations are unwell, usually suffering from some form of parasites and upper respiratory infections as well. By the time they’re healed and ready for adoption – and therefore we have space to take in more cats – the cats who remained on the property might have had more kittens or become pregnant again.”
Both managers say volunteer fosters are key to saving animals and freeing shelter space, and both locations urgently need more.
Spaying and neutering is the best way to manage populations, but cost can be a barrier. The BC SPCA offers a low-income spay/neuter program, funded by local grants including the Osprey Community Foundation, Columbia Basin Trust’s Resident Directed (ReDi) Grants and the Regional District of East Kootenay. Some local vets also partner to provide the services.
Property owners needing help can call the BC SPCA Animal Helpline at 1-855-622-7722, open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., excluding statutory holidays. Those interested in fostering can learn more and apply online.
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