FROM URBAN STREET FIGHTERS TO BARNYARD RODENT KILLERS: CATS BORN TO ROAM – Around The Frame

As the month of June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, it seems fitting to shine the spotlight on the Barn Cat program approved last August and administered by the Allen County SPCA. It is quite clear: not all cats are born for a household environment. We tend to think of cats as cute cuddly bundles of fur who love to snuggle and purr on their pet parents’ laps. For those cats used to an urban environment their lifestyle creates challenges as they are susceptible to disease, malnutrition and danger.

Acknowledging these urban felines are not suited to be reprogrammed for household living, the Allen County SPCA along with its partners Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control and HOPE for Animals work together to provide them with safe environments by offering them in pairs to barn owners. First the ACSPCA matches two compatible healthy, sterilized, ear tipped and vaccinated cats. Their new pet parent agrees to provide a warm secure shelter, food and water, periodic exams and vaccinations. By being in daily eye contact with them, will help create a trusting relationship.

Once a match is made the ACSPCA staff assists their new caretaker in introducing the pair to their new environment. This includes keeping them confined for a few weeks while they acclimate to their new surroundings.

Once adjusted to their new environment not only are the cats free to scamper about they can hone their instinctive hunting skills as they aide their new caretakers by keeping the rodent population down.

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For too long these “square peg” cats have been euthanized due to their inability to “fit it”. Now thanks to this collaborative program, with a change of environment they too can enjoy happy and productive lives.

For more information on the project contact the ACSPCA or go to: www.allencountyspca.org/

Lois Levihn is the owner of Born Again Quilts a restoration studio and quilt gallery located at 4005 South Wayne Ave. She can be contacted at 260-515-9446 or bornagainquilts@frontier.com.