Making a Difference This Kitten Season

As the days lengthen and temperatures rise, we at Napa Humane prepare for a critical time of year, kitten season. This period, marked by a surge in kitten births, brings challenges (and of course a little joy) to animal welfare organizations. Between 2021 – 2023, Napa Humane altered 2,506 Community Cats.  This year, Napa Humane’s Spay and Neuter Clinic was able to  provide subsidized spay and neuter surgeries for an additional 40 community cats. This lifesaving work is proudly supported by Petco Love.

Understanding Kitten Season

Kitten season typically spans from early spring through late fall. While kittens are undeniably adorable, this period poses significant challenges:

• Overpopulation: A sudden increase in the cat population can lead to overcrowded shelters/rescue groups/foster homes.
• Resource Demand: The need for food, medical care, and space skyrockets.
• Health Risks: Young kittens are highly susceptible to diseases and require intensive care.
• Adoption Urgency: There’s a pressing need to find loving homes for the influx of kittens.

The Power of Prevention: Spay and Neuter

At Napa Humane, we believe that prevention is the most effective strategy to manage and mitigate the challenges of kitten season.

Here is why Spay and Neuter Matters:

1. Reducing Overpopulation

By spaying and neutering community cats, we prevent the birth of countless kittens that would otherwise add to the seasonal surge. Each surgery performed means fewer kittens that will require shelter, food, and medical care.

2. Enhancing Community Health

Spaying and neutering not only helps control the population but also contributes to the overall health and well-being of community cats. These procedures reduce the risk of certain diseases and prevent behaviors associated with mating, such as fighting and roaming.

3. Building a Compassionate Community

Our efforts are not just about numbers; they’re about fostering a compassionate community. By reducing the number of homeless cats, we lessen the strain on our shelter and enhance the quality of life for both the animals and our neighbors.

How You Can Help

The work we do would not be possible without community support. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Donate: Your contributions help us continue providing these vital services and expand our reach.
• Advocate: Spread the word about the importance of spaying and neutering pets.
• Foster or Adopt: Open your home to a cat or kitten in need.  There are an abundance of cats and kittens in need of a foster or forever home.  Be sure to reach out to one of our local rescue partners if you are interested in fostering or adopting!

Click here for more information on our spay and neuter service.  If you would like to learn how you can support our mission, click here.  You can help us continue to make a difference, one spay or neuter at a time.