Cats: Man’s other best friend
FOURWAYS - Dogs are considered to be man's best friend but 4Paws animal shelter is encouraging the public to consider what good friends cats can be.
The shelter currently houses 120 cats as well as a few kittens.
Founder of 4Paws Merinda Brits said, “We have a lot more cats than dogs because people often adopt dogs but are not very receptive to adopting cats.”
The cats that 4Paws rescues are usually abandoned or abused. They also rescue feral cats that people want to get rid of.
Brits explained that people often wanted to adopt kittens instead of adult cats because there is a misconception that fully-grown cats will never settle into another environment and will run away.
She suggested keeping the adopted cat indoors until they are used to the household and feel safe.
Brits explained that another reason people preferred not to adopt cats was because they already had dogs in their household.
She said, “I actually own dogs and cats and I know from personal experience that they don’t have to grow up together in order to live harmoniously.”
Brits suggested keeping the cats separate from the dogs until they are used to each other’s smells then introducing the dogs to the new cat one by one while the dog is on a lead.
She explained that one of the main reasons people are dissuaded from adopting cats is the misconception that cats are not affectionate.
“People want a cat to run up to them like a dog and wag its tail but I don’t think you can compare two totally different species. Cats are just as affectionate as dogs but they show their affection in different ways.”
4Paws has some beautiful cats and kittens up for adoption.
For more information contact 4Paws animal shelter.
Details: 083-377-3219
