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FAQ

If you have a question that's not addressed here or anywhere else, or if you're still unsure of anything, please contact us via any of the methods on our contact page.

About Us

Where are you based?

Our rescue centre is in Gosfield, just outside Halstead in Essex, but we have volunteers and fosterers throughout the East Anglian region.

The Adoption Process

How accurate are the ages of your cats?

Cards on the table? 

With kittens either born at the shelter/in foster, or who are very young, we can tell their age within a few weeks, as they develop so rapidly. Sometimes we get adult cats whose previous owners know their age and that's great, but it's not the norm. 

99% of the time however, we have zero information about a cat, and their age can only be a "Best Guess", based on their condition, overall appearance, and the state of their teeth. We completely understand that you want this information, and you will need a date of birth for insurance, so we will do our best. But it is generally only going to be an educated guess. 

At what age does a kitten become a cat?

With regards to the adoption process, we categorise any cat that is 1 year old or older as a "cat", whereas "kittens" are under 1 year old at the time of adoption. 

How much are your adoption fees?

Our adoption fee is £150 for a neutered cat and £200 for kittens: kittens come with their first vaccination. We take £50 of the fee and hold it as deposit against their neutering as it is vital that they are neutered before they are 6 months of age. We can pay this fee to a vet of your choice where you will be expected to pay the difference, or take to our vets at Linkswood or Catley Cross where there will be no extra to pay.

Are your cats checked by a vet before adoption?

All of our cats have a vet health check and are neutered, microchipped, de-wormed and de-fleaed before the adoption process begins.

Advice about cats

How should I introduce my existing cats to a new cat?

It is a good idea to not let your cats meet immediately. Cats are sociable and will usually take to new ones, but are wary and like to do it at their own pace. If a cat is hissing or growling at another it does not mean that they will never get on. Most of this noise is dialogue, and tells the cat it would rather have some more space if possible

Start your new cat off in a room of its own and after a few days allow the cats to see each other but not meet by putting up a barrier. A net or babygate across the door is a simple solution and it allows the cats to see and smell each other without meeting, which usually gives them confidence. 

For more advice, please see our page "Introducing your cat to others".

Fostering

Do you help with the costs involved in fostering a cat or kitten?

Absolutely! We would provide all food, litter and vet bills etc for the time the cat or kitten is with you.

What space do I need to foster a cat or kitten?

You will need to have at least one room that is completely secure where the cat can have its own space.

Please call Alice on 07506 666416 if you would like to discuss Fostering.

Volunteering

What sort of things can a volunteer do to help?

We would love to hear from you if you would like to volunteer in any way. We have a small centre in Gosfield where you are welcome, but there is also a ton of things that can be done remotely. 

We can usually find something you would love to do including.

  • Making things – knitting, craft etc.
  • DIY
  • Fostering
  • Transport
  • Cleaning, feeding etc.
  • Cat cuddling
  • Cat socialising
  • Social Media
  • Car Boot sales
  • Online sales
  • Hosting events
  • Trapping
  • Lost Cat posters
  • Mail Drop, leafleting etc.

Donations

How can I make a donation?

Please click the PayPal button on our Donation page. You don't have to have a PayPal account to donate using their service - all major cards are accepted. Every single penny is appreciated.

Thank you so much!