For the rest of June a 50 per cent adoption fee applies at all BC SPCA branches in an effort to free up capacity. (Jordan Davidson/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

cat-tagular deal

Cat adoption fees temporarily slashed to lessen load on SPCA branches

Jun 20, 2022 | 3:53 PM

NANAIMO — With many BC SPCA branches overwhelmed with felines, a 50 per cent off adoption fee for adult cats is now in effect until the end of June.

The promotion involves all cats six months or older waiting at SPCA branches in the province before finding their permanent home.

The cat conundrum is a constant issue at the Nanaimo and District BC SPCA Branch, where manager Bonnie Pequin said their capacity for accepting cats is extremely tight.

She said the area’s challenging housing market is playing a direct role in people giving up their pets.

“We’ve been seeing a lot of cats coming in lately. There’s always a lot of people not being able to find places to rent as well and having to give up their cats.”

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The cost of adopting a standard adult cat at the Nanaimo SPCA branch is usually $149, which is now reduced by half, while a $45 registration fee is added.

Cats more than eight-years-old are typically $75, along with a $23 registration fee.

Pequin said there is a waiting list to relinquish control of household cats to their branch.

“We try to help you find other solutions because we’re not just that solution. An emergency yes, we would bring in cats, but we try them to do different sources.”

Pequin said a spay/neuter program offering discounted procedures for low-income pet owners helped reduce the number of cats in their care in the past.

She hoped the program can be re-launched in the new year, but noted it’s difficult for local veterinarian clinics to take on the tasks since they are all so busy.

A BC SPCA news release noted a recent seizure involving 120 cats in northern B.C. and 70 cats surrendered to the SPCA in Squamish are examples adding further strains to their ability to house cats.

Information on adopting a pet in Nanaimo, including fees and what’s included in adopting animals can be found here at the Nanaimo and District BC SPCA branch website.

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