Humane Services to Spay and Neuter Shelter Cats

City Council have voted in favour of a decision that will see all shelter cats spayed or neutered prior to being adopted from the Animal Care and Adoption Centre.

“Currently, we have a very high intake rate of cats and they often have a lengthy stay at our adoption centre,” said Councillor Jamie Korab, Council Lead for Community Services. “Our shelter has been over capacity on a few occasions. By including spaying and neutering in the adoption fee, we are hoping to see an increase in adoptions each year, and a decreased length of stay for the animals.”

There will be no increase to the City’s adoption fees: $138 for cats (taxes included).

“A part of our former adoption contract with pet owners was to have their animal spayed or neutered following the adoption,” said Councillor Korab. “Unfortunately, many clients did not comply, and we hope this new policy will help reduce the number of unwanted litters and cat population overall.”

The policy for spaying or neutering all shelter cats is in effect immediately. 

Media Contact:
Kelly Maguire
Media Relations
City of St. John's
709-576-8491
kmaguire@stjohns.ca