The shelter's cat population is at an all-time high
Hillsborough County's Pet Resource Center (PRC) is facing an unprecedented challenge - the shelter is overflowing with cats at a time of year when numbers are typically low. With more than 350 cats and kittens currently in care, the shelter is operating at 628% of its intended capacity.
As the county's only open-admission shelter, the PRC takes in every stray animal that comes through its doors, regardless of age, breed, or circumstance. While the shelter often reaches full capacity, this record-breaking influx of felines has staff asking the community to step up and help by adopting or spreading the word.
Many of the cats currently waiting for homes are not kittens but adult cats who are frequently overlooked by adopters. Nevertheless, adopting a grown cat comes with many benefits; they're often calmer, already litterbox trained, and more adaptable to indoor life. Older cats tend to settle into new homes quicker than kittens and offer companionship without the attention needs or energy that can come with kittens. Additionally, their personalities are usually well-established, making it easier for adopters to find a cat that matches their lifestyle.
The PRC also has a number of cats enrolled in its Working Cats Program, meaning these pets are likely to thrive better outdoors rather than indoors. These cats are perfect for those seeking natural pest deterrents for businesses or properties such as in barns, warehouses, or areas where natural pest control is welcome. Regardless, whether a lap cat or a mouser is desired, there's a feline friend waiting to be adopted.
For those unable to adopt, there are other ways to help. Residents can donate supplies such as food, litter, bedding, and toys or share adoptable pets on social media to help them find homes quickly. Every act of support helps reduce the strain placed on the shelter and gives these deserving pets a second chance.
The Pet Resource Center is located at 440 N. Falkenburg Rd., Tampa, FL 33619 and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All adoptable pets, along with their medical and behavioral records, can be viewed online at HCFL.gov/Adopt.
Now is the perfect time to open your heart and home to a cat in need!