loudoun working cats

what are loudoun working cats?

Working cats are domestic cats that live mostly outdoors, as feral or semi-feral, on rural, agricultural or commercial properties, such as farms, warehouses, vineyards, plant nurseries, greenhouses, distilleries, wineries and sometimes even residential homes. They live in sheds, barns, stables, greenhouses, garages, granaries or other outbuildings on the property. These cats are free to roam the property, while providing free and organic pest control in exchange for food, water and shelter.

Community Cats

What is HSLC's Loudoun WOrking Cats program?

Our Loudoun Working Cat program places healthy, sterilized cats onto suitable properties. Relocation is always a last resort for cats/colonies, but sometimes they are in dangerous situations or conditions and relocation is their only option. Relocating cats to barns, nurseries or other types of properties requires several weeks of confinement to help the cats adjust to their new location. All cats adopted out as working cats are fully vetted. This includes being vaccinated for Rabies and Distemper, tested for FIV/ FeLV, being spayed or neutered and microchipped. We also provide help and guidance (and equipment if needed) to help the relocated cats successfully transition to their new homes.

How do I adopt a Working Cat?

To request Loudoun Working Cats for your property, complete the Loudoun Working Cat application. One of our volunteers will then be in touch to begin the process.

There is no adoption fee for Loudoun Working cats, although we do ask for a tax-deductible donation to help offset the costs of the program. 

Apply Now!

requirements

  • Provide a forever home that includes the following:
    • Daily food and water: A well-fed cat is a more efficient rodent hunter than a hungry cat because have the energy to hunt for sport. Hungry cats will only catch enough to eat.
    • Shelter
    • Vet Care: Yearly vaccinations, treatment of injury/illness
  • Agree to adopt at least two cats, which increases the success rate.
  • Agree to follow the guidelines and protocols for a successful transition including at least 4 weeks of confinement in a secure room, cage, or crate while the cats adjust to their new surroundings. Cats are very territorial and cannot simply be put into a new location without a suitable transition period. Failure to do so will cause the cats to try and return to their original location, which usually causes them to be killed in the process.

Questions?

For more information, contact us at helpanimals@humaneloudoun.org.

Kitten on Laptop