What is a working cat?
Working cats are, by definition, unsuitable for traditional adoption as house pets, and have very limited socialization skills with humans. They can range from semi-social to feral. Occasionally, we have a social cat that just prefers the hunting lifestyle. While we do have cats that have come from exclusively outdoor environments, we also have cats that would be best suited for an indoor environment such as a warehouse, shop, garage, brewery, etc. In general, working cats require minimum attention from humans, but will earn their keep by keeping the critters at bay.
Our cats are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped.
Our working cats are adopted in groups of 2 or more. Having a buddy reduces the stress of acclimating to a new environment and reinforces their desire to stay on the property. Remember, these are cats that take more comfort in each other, rather than with humans.
What is the adoption Fee?
There is no adoption fee, but a donation is encouraged to help us cover the cost of care and vetting.
What do I need to adopt a working cat?
You must be able to provide a place that is climate-controlled & safe from predators. Food & water must be given daily. Hungry cats do not make good mousers!
Adopters should be prepared to commit to a minimum two-week acclimation period to help the cats adjust to their new home, but should be prepared to confine the cats for up to four weeks if they need more time to adjust.
How do I acclimate my cat to their new environment?
The initial shelter should be escape-proof. If the shelter has escape routes, you may use an extra-large dog crate or large exercise pen covered with mesh wire, if you do not have alternative options.
Food, water, some sort of soft bedding along with a litter box should be placed in the confinement space. Feeding canned cat food, in addition to dry, during the acclimation period, is encouraged. Not only does this help to stimulate their appetite, they will also associate you with food they really enjoy.
A towel or cardboard box for hiding can be placed, if the pen is large enough. It is also helpful if the space has some source of natural light to help with circadian rhythms.
Unless the cats you are adopting are known to be bonded, each cat should have their own kennel or separate space during this initial period.
If you are adopting strictly outdoor cats, after being introduced outside, you should continue to feed and water your new cats in their designated indoor shelter. To keep them safe from predators and to establish a routine, we recommend that the cats be brought in at night.
Do I need to provide veterinary care after they are adopted?
Yes! When you adopt it is expected that you will maintain the health of your cat, including having routine vaccinations that are required by law.
We recommend that treats be given on a regular basis in a crate to maintain carrier training. You may need to live trap your cat in order to have them treated. Please reach out to us, if you need guidance or temporary use of trap.
