Domestic Felines Aren't Cheap Purchases.
In the picturesque town of Neuwied, Germany, a small but mighty organisation has been making a significant impact on the lives of cats for four decades. The Neuwied Cat Help, founded in July 1985 by 18 dedicated women, has grown from humble beginnings to become a beacon of hope for countless felines in need.
The association, now boasting around 500 members, is supported by a team of 100 volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to various tasks, from daily care to organisational duties and temporary accommodation of animals. The main foster home is located in the Heimbach-Weiser industrial estate, where an average of 100 animals, including around 200 cats per year, find a safe haven.
However, the work of the Neuwied Cat Help is far from easy. Spring to fall, animal welfare workers are overwhelmed with a flood of kittens due to unspayed or neutered parent cats. This challenge is not unique to Neuwied; many shelters face similar issues, leading to high kill rates and overcrowding. In 2021, over 355,000 dogs and cats were euthanized in the U.S. due to lack of homes[1].
The influx of kittens is further complicated by the demand for purebred animals. Pedigree cats have become status symbols, often treated poorly and ending up in shelters. Unfortunately, the trade in pedigree cats has developed harmful structures, including hobby breeders and criminal gangs who produce these cats under poor conditions and sell them online at lower prices.
Despite these challenges, the Neuwied Cat Help continues to provide the best care possible for its feline residents. Cats, now the most popular pets in Germany, often require special attention, especially those that are feral and have grown up without human contact. These cats often take a long time to trust humans and be ready for adoption.
The association's efforts are not without cost. In 2023, the Neuwied Cat Help spent around 132,000 euros on veterinary costs alone. Fortunately, the organisation is mostly funded by donations, raising around 250,000 euros per year.
As the Neuwied Cat Help celebrates its 40th anniversary, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by animal shelters and the importance of continued support for organisations like this one. While improvements have been made, there are still many cats that lack proper care and are abandoned or surrendered.
Addressing the illegal trade of purebred cats requires robust regulations and enforcement mechanisms to protect both animals and consumers. This includes educating the public about ethical adoption practices and supporting legal breeders and shelters. By working together, we can ensure that every cat finds a loving home and receives the care it deserves.
[1] ASPCA (2021). National Shelter Report. Available at: https://www.aspca.org/shelter-data-resources/national-shelter-report [Accessed 25 April 2023]
[2] Best Friends Animal Society (2021). Understanding Shelter Pet Statistics. Available at: https://www.bestfriends.org/learn/resources/shelter-statistics [Accessed 25 April 2023]
[3] Humane Society of the United States (2021). Animal Hoarding. Available at: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/animal-hoarding [Accessed 25 April 2023]
The association's work extends beyond cats, with a focus on home-and-garden animals as well, providing care and shelter for them when needed. Members and volunteers also recognize the significance of pets in people's lifestyles, working tirelessly to ensure every pet finds a loving home, whether it's a cat, a dog, or another small creature.
