Kitten shower: Pregnant cats and kittens in care at Humane Society
The Georgian Triangle Humane Society (GTHS) is asking the community for support as kitten season begins and pregnant cats and newborn litters arrive into care.
The GTHS is currently caring for 10 cats who arrived pregnant, with some kittens already born and more expected in the coming days. To help meet the immediate need, the organization is hosting a Kitten Shower appeal from May 2-10, inviting the community to make a donation or send much-needed supplies to support their care.
“Kitten season always brings added pressure, but this year we are seeing that need very early,” said Karen Marsh, executive director of the Georgian Triangle Humane Society. “Pregnant cats and newborn litters require a significant amount of care, space, supplies, and veterinary support. Our team, along with our foster volunteers, is doing everything we can to make sure these cats and kittens have what they need from the moment they arrive.”
The fundraising appeal will help provide essential supplies and support for cats and kittens in care, including kitten formula, food, bedding, medical care, monitoring, and safe, quiet spaces where cats can give birth, recover, and nurse their kittens.
One of the cats currently in care is Chica, who arrived at the GTHS just in time to be placed with longtime foster volunteers Don and Brenda Stockman, who have now fostered 96 cats and kittens over the years, including 81 through the GTHS. When Chica arrived at the Stockman’s home on a Friday afternoon, she was expected to give birth in about 10 days. By Sunday night, her water had broken. By Monday morning, five kittens had arrived.
Chica’s story is one example of how quickly things can change during kitten season. Cats can arrive close to giving birth, and kittens may need care within hours or days. Foster homes play an important role in creating space at the Animal Centre while giving pregnant cats and newborn kittens a quieter environment during their most vulnerable early days.
“Every foster home, every donation, and every item from our wish list helps us respond when animals need us,” said Marsh. “This appeal is about making sure we can be ready for the kittens already here and the ones still on the way.”
Community members can support the Kitten Shower appeal by making a donation, purchasing supplies from the GTHS wish list, or learning more about becoming a foster volunteer.
The Kitten Shower appeal runs until May 10, ending on Mother’s Day – a fitting reminder that, because of community support, these moms are not alone.
To make a donation or send a “shower gift,” visit gths.ca/kitten-shower.
