A bunch of strays are being brought to the local animal shelter after a well-meaning resident began feeding them and the population soared
The Kamloops SPCA is preparing to take in a cluster of cats and kittens after well-meaning people found themselves overrun with strays.
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The B.C. SPCA says four adult cats and four kittens are already at the Kamloops animal centre, and 15 to 25 more cats will be surrendered in the coming weeks from the same property.
“This happens all too often when a kind person feeds a stray cat,” said Daria Evans, manager of the Kamloops shelter. “In this case, the finders began feeding stray cats in their community during the pandemic and in no time at all the number of cats in their home more than doubled. They became overwhelmed and reached out to us.”
The first group included a female, her four kittens and five adult cats, two of which were euthanized due to their condition.
“The kittens tested positive for coccidia and one of the adult cats tested positive for giardia, so all the cats immediately went into quarantine and were treated,” said Evans. “It is likely that all of the cats in this home will require treatment, so we need to prepare for that.”
Coccidia and giardia are parasitic infections of the intestinal tract and are typically treated with oral medications and intravenous fluids if required. Although common and treatable, it is contagious.
Once the cats clear quarantine, they’ll be placed in foster homes or made available for adoption.
“The kittens are very playful and sweet,” said Evans. “They were a little grumpy when we gave them their coccidia baths, but that is to be expected. They now seem to be much happier and content.”
The adults are apparently a mix of indoor and outdoor cats, said Evans.
“We have been pleasantly surprised at how comfortable they have been around us, but we are conscious some may not have had as much human socialization as others. They are very affectionate and love it when staff comes around to feed and care for them.”
Evans said it’s important for people to reach out to the SPCA if there are stray cats around, and the sooner the better.
“It is amazing how quickly a cat population can explode,” she said.
Some of the cats and kittens will be available for adoption within a week or two.
