Kilkenny SPCA launch Adopt a Barn Cat programme

The Kilkenny Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals have launched their Adopt a Barn Cat programme which aims to pair cats with the farming and equine community across the county. The programme has the dual purpose of providing homes for semi-wild cats that have been neutered, and in need of a home, while also providing a natural rodent control.

This new initiative is based on similar successful programmes in the United States and is aimed at farmers and horse owners whose premises may naturally attract rodents. Potential new owners will need to show they can provide a safe and permanent home for the cats, provide veterinary care if needed and be in a position to feed the cats.

Commenting on the programme, Noel O’Donoghue, Animal Welfare Officer at the charity said, “Adopting a cat can be a mutually beneficial relationship as you will be saving the life of a healthy cat, while they will be a useful resource in cutting down on rodent problems in a safe and natural way. All of the cats that are up for adoption will be humanely caught before being taken to a vet for examination, neutering and a full vaccination. It is worth noting that cats become tamer after neutering but some cats who end up in our care are unsuitable for a domestic environment. They may be born and raised in the wild or are under-socialized and not used to human contact, hence the reason for the Barn Cat Programme.”

“We still believe these cats deserve a happy life and that they can be placed with families who value them as much as we do,” he added.

In order to avail of the scheme people will need to register their interest with Kilkenny SPCA by calling 056 7771635 or emailing animalwelfare@kilkennyspca.ie. Kilkenny SPCA only ask the cats are given a safe and welcoming home and a donation to the charity. As a charity, Kilkenny SPCA relies on donations to help fund their important work of animal welfare in the county and are always appreciative of what people can give.