ASPCA Gears Up for Influx of Kittens This Spring

NEW YORK--The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) would like to remind New Yorkers of the annual phenomenon known as "Kitten Season"--the unofficial name for the breeding season for cats--and its impact on the community and the city's animal shelters.

"Kitten Season" generally lasts between early spring and late fall. During this time, a single unspayed female cat may have up to two litters in most regions around the country--with the potential for four or more kittens to be born to each litter. The number of kittens far exceeds the number of homes available so most kittens born during this season end up homeless, causing animal shelters to become inundated.

"For anyone who might be considering adopting a cat, shelters need help now more than ever," said Gail Buchwald, senior vice president of the ASPCA's Adoption Center. "In addition to adopting kittens, we hope folks will consider adopting adult cats, so that shelters can make room for the new litters that require so much additional care. As an added benefit, adult cats are typically easier pets than kittens--they've lived in homes, are litter box trained, and don't have the frenetic energy of kittens."

The ASPCA recommends having cats spayed or neutered as a vital part of reducing the number of unwanted kittens. In addition to private veterinary clinics, there are additional spay/neuter options available to New Yorkers, especially to those on fixed or low incomes. One such option is the ASPCA's low-cost Mobile Spay/Neuter Program.

"We urge New Yorkers to help reduce the number of homeless animals and get their cats spayed or neutered," said Aimee Christian, vice president of the ASPCA's Spay/Neuter Operations. "Our mobile clinics are a safe, easily accessible, and affordable resource."

For more information about adopting from the ASPCA's Adoption Center, call (212) 876-7700, ext. 4120 or visit www.aspca.org/aspca-nyc/adoption-center/.

For more information about the ASPCA's Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinics, call 877-SPAY-NYC or visit www.aspca.org/aspca-nyc/mobileclinic.