Articles by Emily
Printed monthly in The Union newspaper, Nevada County
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Kitten season: Why spaying and neutering matters more than ever
As another kitten season winds down, shelters across the country—including ours—are taking stock of just how many tiny lives came through our doors. This year, we have cared for 412 kittens so far, with a few more likely to arrive before the season fully ends. While that number may sound heartwarming at first, it highlights a much larger issue: the urgent need for spaying and neutering in our community.
For those who haven’t heard the term before, “kitten season” may sound unusual—but it’s very real. Starting each spring, typically around late March or April, through the end of September, unspayed cats give birth to litter after litter as the weather warms. Suddenly, shelters are overflowing with kittens, often found in unexpected places like sheds, woodpiles, barns, fields, and backyards. Each of these kittens—and their mothers—need food, vaccinations, veterinary care, and eventually, spay or neuter surgery.
While we adore every kitten that comes into our care, the sheer volume creates challenges. Shelters everywhere are stretched thin, and resources are put to the test. That’s why spaying and neutering is so important. Preventing unwanted litters before they happen is the most effective way to reduce overpopulation, lessen the strain on shelters, and ensure every cat has a chance at a healthy, happy life.
Spaying and neutering also benefits pets directly: it reduces the risk of certain cancers, prevents unwanted behaviors like spraying and roaming, and helps cats live longer, healthier lives. It’s a simple step that makes an incredible difference for animals and for the community.
The good news is that everyone can play a role. By making the choice to spay or neuter your pets, you’re helping to prevent countless kittens from entering the shelter system next year. You’re also giving shelters like ours the ability to devote more time, love, and resources to the animals already in need.
Kitten season reminds us every year that the work of caring for animals is a community effort. Together, we can ensure fewer kittens face uncertain futures and more cats find the loving homes they deserve.
If you need help finding low-cost spay/neuter options, or if you’d like to learn more about how you can support animals in our community, please reach out to us. Together, we can make next year’s kitten season a little smaller—and a lot brighter for cats everywhere.