Kittens and cats in Duncan, British Columbia

*** Adopt-a-pet requires that the fields for breed, sex, colour, and hair length be filled in on this ad, although in reality our barn cats are not all black shorthaired females. Also, corresponding photos to this ad are of feral cats that have come through our system. That particular cat may or may not be available now. Generally, suitable placements receive barn cats of whatever colour we have available. Colour requests can be made, but can't usually be met quickly, if at all. *** We operate a trap-neuter-return (TNR) program for feral cats in the Cowichan Valley, and the 'R' part of that process is very important. We cannot take feral cats away from property owners who don't want to be bothered with looking after them. We fix hundreds of ferals every year, we have no head office or shelter, we are simply a network of volunteers who work out of our own homes, and so all ferals (aside from tiny kittens) must be returned to where they came from, with an agreement with the property owner that he/she will feed them after we have 'fixed' and returned them. That being said, there are rare circumstances where a feral cat cannot go back to where it came from. For example, in 2013 we removed a champagne coloured cat from a construction site where she was living and raising kittens. She was at risk of injury if she stayed there, and after the construction company left there would be no one to continue feeding her. In this way, we are always looking for 'barn homes' where we can place a pair of feral cats to save their lives. All barn cats are spayed or neutered and have received their first shots. We always send them out in pairs so that they have a friend (and this also helps reduce the chance that they will run away later). Barn cats can be placed on a farm, acreage, vineyard, warehouse, or even a backyard. We place them free of charge, but we need to make sure of a few things first. The property owner must agree to give the cat one meal of cat food every day and fresh water, forever. The cats will still take care of the rodents in your yard as you want them to. Starving cats are so desperate for a meal that they don't make good mousers. So a meal a day is essential. The cats must be able to get out of the wind and the rain. We can provide you with a Styrofoam cat shelter so that they stay snug. We also need to make sure that the home is not located on a busy road where it is likely that the cats will be run over. We always ask about dogs, as it is upsetting when we hear that barn cats ran away from their new home on account of a dog's presence (not necessarily because the dog was badly behaved, but simply because feral cats are scared of dogs). Generally, dogs are not suitable to have on the same property as barn cats. A very mellow, sluggish-type dog that is disinterested in cats can be okay. The cats must be in lockdown in an escape-proof holding space for one month so that they get used to you, their new feeder, and learn that this is their new home and food comes from you. This space can be a workshop, tack room, garage, outbuilding, etc., and if you don't have something along those lines then we can loan you an extra large wire dog kennel to keep the cats in for the month. If the shed or similar space is quite small and the cats are at risk of bolting past when the door is open, the wire kennel will be needed. After the month of lockdown, the cats can be released outside, and they should stick around. Barn homes are very, very useful to our work. If you can meet the requirements outlined above and are willing to take on a couple of barn cats who will provide you with environmentally friendly, non-toxic rodent control, we would love to hear from you.

Willow is a sweet, easygoing cat who balances playfulness and relaxation. A curious shadow cat, she likes to stay close and will softly call out if she can’t find you. Willow is gentle and affectionate, often curling up beside you or snuggling in for some love. Brave, curious, and loving, she’s the perfect companion for anyone seeking a sweet, laid-back best friend.

Winnie is a gentle, affectionate cat who warms your heart with her quiet charm. Initially shy, she has blossomed into a sweet cuddlebug who melts into you during pets. Curious yet cautious, Winnie thrives in a calm, quiet home without loud noises or fast movements. With patience and love, she will continue to grow into the tender, loving companion she is meant to be. If you have a patient heart and a cozy lap, Winnie could be your perfect match.

We would like to introduce you to Terry. Or as he likes to be called "Terrific Terry from Thailand". This handsome guy was recently surrendered to our care by his owners. They had adopted Terry (as well as another kitty) back in 2021 through a rescue in Thailand. Recently, Terry had been exhibiting dominant behaviour toward the other cat in the house (with whom he had lived peacefully for his whole life.) His owners became concerned for the safety of the other cat (who is much smaller than Terry) and asked for help rehoming Terry. Terry is a lovely kitty. He is also a very strong and large-sized kitty. Terry loves to play and is VERY vocal. Terry has a voice like a Siamese cat. But he has a MUCH larger frame than what we normally think of as a Siamese cat. Despite his "tough guy" persona, Terry is also an absolute love who lies on his back for belly rubs! in his previous home here in Canada, Terry did have access to a large secure catio space. In his current foster home, he is contained as an indoor cat. Terry clearly would like to go back outside - but his foster doesn't have a secure outdoor space for him. The PURRfect home for Terry would be as a single pet. Terry says that you wouldn't need any other pets, once you see how great he is. Given his size and strength, we would recommend that Terry be placed in an adult only home, or with cat-savvy older children. Terry is up to date on his vaccines (FVRCP and Rabies), has been treated for fleas and parasites, and tested for FIV / FeLV (negative results). If you would like to learn more about Terry or make an appointment to meet him, please reach out to us - info@catsofsaltspring.com / 236-508-2287 Terry CAN'T WAIT to meet you!

Beautiful 8 year old Lola was surrendered to our rescue earlier this year by her family. Lola had lived with them since she was a baby kitten, but had recently taken to wandering far away from the family home, often crossing busy roads in her travels. Her family felt that the best solution was to surrender Lola to us, so that we could find her a home with a family who had more time to give Lola the care and attention that she deserves, and a safer environment. When she first came into our care, Lola displayed signs of fear aggression. When startled (by loud noises, new people, or sudden movements toward her), Lola would feel threatened and might hiss, swat, or bite. Sadly, this behaviour was likely the result of traumatic experiences she had earlier in her life. We felt so bad for Lola and vowed to make sure that she knew she was safe in our care. We have allowed Lola to feel safe in her foster home by providing a predictable and reassuring environment and schedule. We have noticed that Lola has relaxed and has begun to trust us. There have been moments of absolute joy seeing Lola relaxed or playing. Lola absolutely LOVES tunnels! The perfect new home environment for Lola will be one where life is predictable and safe. Lola would do well with an experienced cat owner / caretaker who would be able to read her body language and provide the needed reassurance when Lola is feeling stressed. Seeing Lola blossom in her new home will be so rewarding for her adopter! Lola has been vaccinated (FVRCP and rabies), treated for fleas and parasites, and tested for FIV / FeLV (negative results). We would be very happy to place Lola in a foster-to-adopt arrangement, to ensure that her adopter feels supported and confident as Lola settles in. For more information or to arrange a meet & greet with Lola, please reach out: info@catsofsaltspring.com / 236-508-2287

Gentle Oscar was found by a caring Salt Spring family in late 2024, when it was cold and blowy outside. One day he just appeared in their neighbourhood and was heard walking through the various backyards crying out. His finder discovered that Oscar had been digging in their garbage looking for food - hence his name! Oscar was easily trapped - he was so grateful to come into our care and have a warm place to sleep and lots of food. We had hoped that he would be microchipped, as he was already neutered. But he wasn’t. And no owners came forward to claim him. Poor Oscar - it looks like he was abandoned by his family. Estimated at approximately 10 years of age, Oscar’s bloodwork revealed that he is in the early stage of kidney disease, Oscar enjoys a renal care diet! But otherwise, he is a very healthy (and handsome!) guy. Oscar had the wonderful opportunity to be placed as a Lifetime Foster with a Salt Spring resident for several months this year. However, this individual is no longer available to care for Oscar. We need to find him a new home! We are looking for a new (strictly indoor!) home for Oscar. We will provide his food and any other supplies (litter etc). We will also be responsible for his veterinary care. You just need to provide the love. Oscar LOVED to snuggle on the couch and sleep right beside his previous foster mom. Oscar is also tolerant of respectful dogs. If you might be interested in learning more about Oscar or wanting to come and meet him, please reach out. He’s a TOTAL charmer. Email us at info@catsofsaltspring.com / phone - 236-508-2287 Oscar is looking forward to meeting you.