Kitten season: urgent appeal for homes and volunteers

Summer brings longer days, warmer weather and, for animal rescue organisations, the beginning of one of the most demanding times of the year: kitten season.

As daylight increases in spring and early summer, unneutered female cats are more likely to have litters. This means rescue groups can suddenly find themselves caring for large numbers of kittens, born to owned cats that have not been sterilised, as well as stray, abandoned and feral cats.

Without neutering, the situation can escalate quickly. One litter can become several, and each kitten needs food, veterinary care, a safe place to grow and, most importantly, a permanent home. Sterilisation remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the number of unwanted cats and prevent future suffering.

We are currently caring for several kittens rescued from the Torre area in Odiáxere, where a number of mother cats and their babies were brought to safety.

Some are around two months old and ready to start looking for their forever families. They are sweet, curious little characters, with all the potential to become wonderful lifelong companions. With a secure home, affection and a little patience, they will grow into happy, confident and loyal cats.

Others are now nearly three months old. They were rescued with their mother and have been cared for in safety while they grew strong enough to begin their search for a family. They are gentle and curious, although still a little shy in the shelter environment — which is perfectly normal. A busy shelter is not the easiest place for young kittens to show their true personalities. In a calm home, with individual attention and time to settle, we are sure they will blossom.

Every kitten deserves a warm bed, a safe home and the chance to belong to a family. If you have been considering adopting a cat, please get in touch to find out more. Adopting one kitten makes a genuine difference, creating space and resources for us to help the next animal in need.

We are also looking ahead to Arte Doce, taking place in Lagos from July 22 to 26, and urgently need volunteers. If you can spare a few hours to help sell items, speak to visitors and raise awareness of our work, we would be delighted to hear from you. It is a brilliant opportunity to support the shelter while enjoying one of the area’s best-loved summer events.

Finally, a reminder that our summer opening hours are 8am to 12 noon on Saturdays and Sundays. Early dog walks are particularly welcome before the heat builds. If it is already too warm for walking, the dogs would still appreciate some company, cuddles and a good brush.

[email protected] | cadela-carlota.com

Jonathan Mills

Contributor for the Portugal Resident