What happens to “unadoptable” kitties?

Scott learned about our working cat program when one of his two barn cats passed away. He knew he’d have to find a new companion for his surviving cat, and also someone to help keep the mice at bay.

That’s when he discovered his purr-fect match in Ollie, Billy and Shania!

One of the goals of the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society when rehoming animals is to find the right home for each animal in its care.

What are community cats?

Community cats, which some people refer to as feral cats, require alternative homes due to their lack of socialization. The Ontario SPCA is giving these kitties “jobs” as working cats.

These cats are healthy, spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, ear-tipped and in need of a new, non-traditional home environment. Some examples could include barns, stables, auto repair shops, woodworking shops, wineries, breweries, garden centres, churches, storage facilities and warehouses.

Working cats are not suited to be your typical indoor pets. As unsocialized animals, they have no desire to be lap cats. These kitties prefer outdoor life and minimal to no human contact. They will happily tend to any mouse, mole or vermin problems for a small cost. All they want is a bowl of cat food and water set out daily. In addition to veterinary care and shelter to keep them safe and comfortable.

And because we spay/neuter these kitties before they leave the Ontario SPCA, adopters never need to worry about endless litters of kittens!

How you can get involved

Interested in adopting a working cat? Read the FAQ on our website and apply to adopt at the bottom of the page!

If you aren’t in need of a working cat you can still help by donating to the program! Your generous donation will help to find alternative homes for community cats. In addition, you’ll also help reduce cat overpopulation in Ontario by supporting the vaccination and neutering of feral cats. And that means healthier colonies and fewer kittens.

Your support is critical to help feral cats like Ollie, Billy and Shania find a suitable home and a friendly caretaker – so please donate today!

Your gift will also support our feral cat trap depot program. We will loan traps to feral cat caretakers to trap, neuter and return feral cats to their managed colonies.  Thus, you’re helping to stabilize and, ultimately, reduce feral cat populations in Ontario.

Your support truly makes a difference!