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Aussies urged to do one thing to stop 600 cats a week being dumped at shelters

By Kristine Tarbert|

With more than a quarter (27 per cent) of Australian households having at least one cat, owners are being urged to take proactive steps to prevent unwanted litters this kitten season.

With the days getting longer and warmer, cats are naturally 'coming on heat' and breeding, resulting in a "cat-astrophe" จC unwanted kittens and cats being dropped at shelters.

Despite being compulsory in some states and strongly encouraged in others, it is estimated that one in 10 cats are not desexed.

READ MORE: How much does a cat really cost? What to expect as a new owner?

Owners are being urged to take proactive steps to prevent unwanted litters this kitten season (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

And in just two years, a single pair of cats could result in 20,000 kittens, with a third sent to shelters due to lack of resources and support from owners.

That's close to 600 cats each week being sent to rescue organisations, with some of the kittens needing 24-hour care and bottle feeding, because owners cannot cope with the constant care and attention these kittens require.

Animal rescue advocates are urging those who haven't already desexed their kitten or cat to do so, with pet shelters facing an ever growing crisis.

READ MORE: Flood of applications for rescue 'Bob the dog' after going viral?

rescue cat in tree
A of cats could result in 20,000 kittens in two years if not desexed. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

"Shelters are overflowing with animals that owners were not prepared for," Sasha Gusain, Founder of Waldo's Friends, says.

"If more pet owners were responsible and desexed their cats at the recommended seven months of age, it would ease the load on local shelters."

Australians who are considering getting a cat are encouraged to adopt or foster now instead.

Tips on responsible cat ownership

Gusain ?shared more of her top tips for responsible cat ownership with 9Honey Pets below:

  • Microchipping your cat will help to reunite lost cats with their owners quickly and is also used to prove ownership.?
  • Registering your cat with your local council will ensure your cat does not become a nuisance to neighbours, destroy wildlife or endanger themselves or people. Once registered, your cat should also be easily identifiable with a council collar and tag.
  • Desexing your cat before it is six months old can make your cat less prone to wandering and fighting. Desexing also reduces 'spraying', eliminates the urge for female cats to get outside in search of a mate, and generally makes your cat more affectionate and a better companion.
Sasha Gusain, Founder of Waldo's Friends
Sasha Gusain, Founder of Waldo's Friends. (Supplied)
  • Consider adopting a cat from a shelter instead as rescue cats are desexed and fully vaccinated already. Waldos' Friends features a pet and shelter listing where you can rescue an animal from your local shelter.
  • Sending your cat for regular check-ups at the vet and ensuring it is fully vaccinated will reduce its risk of contracting diseases and keep your cat healthy
  • Keeping your cat inside or secured safely on your property will keep it safe from predators, vehicles and other animals that may harm or transfer diseases to it as well as preventing it from potentially harming native wildlife.
  • Taking careful consideration before getting a cat is important to ensure you and your cat are living your best lives. You should consider:
    - The time and costs involved
    - How much grooming it will need
    - If the breed you want is shy and quiet or active and robust
    - If it will be an indoor cat or if you have appropriate fencing or enclosures?
  • Providing the right nutrition for your cat's diet and appropriate stimulation to keep it engaged will ensure your cat is safe and happy at home

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