Some of the cats being cared for by Bayfield's Forgotten Felines | Photo provided
If you feel like there are more stray cats this year, you’re not wrong, and the cause might be climate change.
That’s according to Deb Penhale, the Founder of Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines.
This year has seen an uptick in the feline population, with 274 cats passing through Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines, and 177 successful adoptions.
Deb expressed concern about the limited number of rescues and shelters available – especially in isolated rural areas.
Some of BFF’s cats have high medical costs, which are generously offset by donors and vets offering reduced cost services | Photo provided
For those encountering abandoned or unhomed cats, Deb suggested simple acts of kindness — like providing food, water, and a makeshift shelter out of an old Rubbermaid bin filled with straw. With overcrowding in shelters presenting its own set of problems, these small gestures can make a significant difference.
Addressing the cat population issue, Deb highlighted local spay/neuter programs, including the East Village Animal Hospital in London, offering discounted services to low-income individuals and rescue organizations. Despite these discounts, the animals that come into their care have high costs to be dewormed, spayed or neutered.
The community can play a vital role in supporting these efforts through donations towards vet procedures, food, litter, toys, and more – Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines has seen consistent support from the Municipality of Bluewater.
In this battle against feline overpopulation, every donation, volunteer, and collaborative effort counts.
If you’re interested in rehoming a cat from Bayfield’s Forgotten Felines, they have lots of furry friends looking for new homes! Reach out today to see if you can find your newest cuddle buddy.
Written by: B. Shakyaver