There are about to be a lot more stray kittens in desperate need of help in Abbotsford, with the start of kitten season officially upon us.
This creates a major strain on groups like Abby Cat Daddy, which provides care for more than 100 cats each year.
Founder Logan Bryan said that kitten season, which typically lasts from spring to early fall, always results in a drastic spike in the number of kittens that come into the group's care.
The same can be said for other animal charities throughout the province, which is why Abby Cat Daddy specializes in caring for hyperlocal animals.
"Our focus is on cats in Abbotsford, Mission, and Chilliwack," Bryan said. "There are many great rescues doing important work elsewhere, but we’re committed to helping local cats who might otherwise slip through the cracks."
In order to deal with this impending surge in kittens entered into its care, Abby Cat Daddy has put out the urgent call for more volunteers.
"Without enough fosters and volunteers, many of these vulnerable kittens are at risk of going without the care they need," Bryan said.
Some of the tasks that the animal charity needs help with are trapping the cats and kittens, transporting them, fostering them, and providing other basic care.
However, Bryan explained that even those who aren't able to serve as volunteers can still help the local animals in need by donating to the online fundraiser currently being run by Abby Cat Daddy in celebration of Bryan's birthday.
In addition to providing care for the numerous stray kittens that will be born this year, Abby Cat Daddy is also helping to reduce the kitten season problem in future years by providing a comprehensive population control program.
"Spaying and neutering are the most effective ways to prevent overpopulation and suffering," Bryan said. "One unspayed female cat and her offspring can produce hundreds of kittens in just a few years."
To learn more about volunteering with Abby Cat Daddy, visit theabbycatdaddy.ca.
