There’s an influx of cuteness every springtime at the Wake County Animal Center – it’s that time of year when large litters of kittens are born across the country and often end up in animal shelters. This is the season these cuddly kitties need help more than ever.
“We need our community to step in and provide forever homes to these loving creatures,” said Vickie Adamson, Wake County Commissioner. “Cats are easy to keep, and they can be the best companions for you.”
During the whole month of June, the public can name their price and take home any cat that is more than five months old.
To reduce the number of cats coming into the shelter, pet owners are encouraged to have their cats spayed or neutered, even if they are indoor cats. The center also encourages residents to refrain from bringing litters of kittens to the shelter unless they are in immediate danger or distress, or if they appear ill or malnourished.
“Generally, litters of kittens that are found are not abandoned. The mother is most likely out finding food for herself and will return shortly,” said Dr. Jennifer Federico, director of the Wake County Animal Center. “If people find kittens that appear sick, unthrifty, are crying, seem skinny, they may need to intervene and bring the kittens to our center. Make sure to bring them in during open hours only.”
Kittens cannot be made available for adoption until they are at least 2 lbs. and eight weeks of age. That’s because really young kittens cannot survive without staff or someone feeding them every few hours, as they cannot eat on their own.
“If you can’t adopt a cat but want to help us, please consider fostering,” said Joanne Duda, foster coordinator at the Wake County Animal Center. “This is a very busy time for us, and we rely on our volunteers and foster parents.”
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 Avenue in Raleigh.
The Wake County Animal Center is the only open-admission shelter in Wake County that never turns away animals, including stray, abandoned and surrendered pets. The shelter treats and re-homes thousands of homeless animals every year.
