Help needed to contain dumpster cat populations
Efforts are being made to raise funds to ensure that the entire cluster is sterilised
For the past two months a band of cat lovers have been working together in an attempt to contain the feral cat populations at the Hospital Road Dump, Northmead, thus the Cat Crusaders was born.
It is estimated that the clowder consists of 15 adults and several kittens, a population which will further balloon if the animals are not sterilised.
Female cats can become pregnant at the age of five months with a birthing average of one to eight kittens per litter.
“During her reproductive life a Molly can birth more than 100 kittens,” said Lyn Smit, one of the Cat Crusader volunteers.
“One Molly’s offspring can produce between 100 and 400 cats in seven years. It is therefore imperative that we assist in not only stunting the population but contribute to its welfare.”
Partnering with Charmaine Woest from BARC and Cecilia Morris de Quintal, founder of Murphy’s Cat Project, in Western Extension, the volunteer group have successfully trapped and funded the sterilisation of 13 Hospital Road cats.
“The Rynfield Veterinary Hospital were gracious in offering the procedures at discounted rates,” said Lyn.
“Through her donation, Charmaine donates 80kg of food and ensures that the animals are fed.”
The continued efforts of the group have hit a wall as funding for further sterilisations has run out, forcing them to appeal to the community for assistance in funding.
“With the help of Cecilia we have successfully rehomed eight kittens and hope that we will be able to continue doing so until all the felines are neutered,” she said.
“Employees at the dump have also been a great help, tending to the welfare of the cluster. They are in the process of using repurposed materials to build a safe space for the cats, where they can sleep soundly, protected from the elements.”
Any donations towards this project can be paid directly to the Rynfield Veterinary Hospital.
The banking details are:
Rynfield Veterinary Hospital, Standard Bank Cheque Account, account number 310 442141, branch code 012 645, reference 25107- BARC.
Proof of payment can be sent to 082 782 5372.
For more information, contact Lyn on 065 893 5768.
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