Most cats are sweet and cuddly. They belong inside – playing with their cat toys, sleeping on your bed or purring on your lap.
But there are exceptions.
Some felines are more “spicy” or wild, and less socialized. These felines haven’t had much contact with humans and, as a result, don’t like to be held or pampered. They are extremely independent and have a bit of an attitude. However, it’s this assertiveness that makes barn cats such good hunters and ideal for getting rid of mice and other pests.
Matching adopters with barn cats
The Aiken County Animal Shelter has access to barn cats throughout the area. Our goal is to help these stray/outdoor, adult cats who are alone to find homes on farms, in barns, warehouses or other safe locations. We look for situations where they will be well cared for and appreciated. These hard working, pest reducing cats can help control the rodent population while enjoying the freedom of outdoor sheltered life with as little or as much human contact as they want.
Thanks to the TNR (Trap, Neuter & Return) program we’ve offered since 2014, many of our community cats are already fixed and in colonies. However, there are some that are single and looking for an outdoor home.
Prior to adoption, all potential barn cats at the County Shelter are:
- Spayed/neutered (altered)
- Vaccinated for rabies
- Ear tipped (the universal sign for an altered feral cat)
Spicy mousers need love, too
While barn cats are feistier than their more domesticated counterparts, it is still important that they are properly cared for and loved. Before you decide to bring a barn cat home, make certain you are able to care for them by providing the following:
- Fresh food and water, daily
- Shelter from outdoor elements
- A safe place to hide from predators.
Barn cats also need to be confined for three weeks before letting them roam the property. They must first learn that the farm is their home and source of food and care, or they are likely to run away.
Barn cats at the County Shelter are free to good homes. If you would like to adopt a barn cat or two (or more) from the Aiken County Animal Shelter, please send an email to info@fotasaiken.org or call (803) 642-1537, option 3.
Their lives are in our hands.
By Bob Gordon, FOTAS Communications Director
