The Ten Lives Cat Centre in Hobart is urgently seeking homes for dozens of cats and kittens as intake numbers surge back to pre-COVID levels. The shelter currently has over 40 cats and kittens ready for adoption, with more than 230 felines under their care.
CEO Noel Hunt revealed that the centre has been overwhelmed since kitten season began before Christmas. “We’ve been taking in 10 to 20-plus cats per day,” Hunt said, emphasizing the urgent need for new homes. “We want these kittens and cats to go to their forever homes.”
The centre is particularly looking for adopters who understand the responsibilities of welcoming a cat or kitten into their household. Since December, Ten Lives has taken in a record 800 cats, with social issues contributing to the overwhelming numbers. Hunt cited problems such as difficulties with rental accommodation, a lack of desexing, and cost of living pressures as factors affecting the community.
In light of these challenges, Ten Lives has asked the State Government for a contribution of $100,000 to help maintain its services. “This contribution would cover just five percent of our total operating costs but would relieve pressure, allowing us to continue meeting community demand,” Hunt explained.
Without additional support, Hunt warned that the centre may struggle to maintain its current level of service. “The vital work we’re doing for animal welfare, the community, and the environment needs some support, or we simply won’t be able to keep up with the work,” he said.
This plea follows a $200,000 contribution from the State Government in 2021, which helped expand the centre’s facilities.
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