No-kill cat rescue shelters are shelters that do not use euthanasia as a form of population control. No-kill shelters do not put cats to sleep unless they are too ill for treatment, or violent and aggressive. An estimated 3 to 4 million animals are killed every year in shelters, but no-kill cat shelters refuse to participate in the use of euthanasia. Most no-kill animal rescue shelters believe that population should be controlled by fewer animals being born, and they promote the practice of spaying and neutering animals. This often includes low cost or free help to families with low income.
About No-Kill Cat Rescue Shelters
A no-kill cat rescue shelter is one that saves cats that are adoptable and suitable for treatment. Only when an animal is considered unadoptable or too sick for treatment will she be euthanized. An animal that is not suitable for adoption may include one that is violent, aggressive, unhealthy or severely injured. Animals that are too ill or sick for any chance of recovery with treatment may also be euthanized.
Spaying and Neutering Cats
No-kill cat rescue shelters strongly believe in spaying and neutering programs, and consider it crucial for the no-kill objective. Because families with lower incomes are not as likely to spay or neuter their animals, no-kill shelter programs sometimes provide assistance or aid to these families. Controlling the overpopulation of cats and other animals through spaying and neutering can be a greatly effective way to keep no-kill animal rescue shelters going.
Adoption Programs
Adoption programs help pets find a permanent home, allowing more space for new cats in the shelters. Many no-kill cat rescue shelters remain open during unusual hours so that families that work can visit the shelter and adopt more cats. Facilities that do not use cages may also be used to provide a more intimate and friendly adoptive atmosphere. This may also help animals to be more social and inviting around the public.
Many no-kill cat rescue centers have advertising programs that make their adoption programs more visible to the public. Large pet supply companies will often participate in these pet adoption programs, as well as the advertising.
Volunteers at No-Kill Shelters
Most no-kill shelters rely on volunteers to keep in operation. These volunteers usually help with socializing animals, cleaning the shelters, promoting adoption and grooming animals. Many volunteers at no-kill cat rescue shelters also end up adopting animals, which helps control population as well. Studies conducted have shown that volunteers at no-kill facilities are more likely to adopt than volunteers at traditional animal shelters.
Retention Programs at No-Kill Shelters
Many no-kill shelters offer advice on behavioral training, lower cost of veterinary care, and behavioral or training programs for pets. Most volunteers and staff members at no-kill cat rescue shelters make sure that the animals are socialized properly and adoptable before putting the animal up for adoption.