Happy Cat to the rescue

Posted 2 months ago

Photo courtesy Happy Cat Sanctuary - Koala Bear, one of the 19 cats rescued by Happy Cat, is in such severe shape that she will need every tooth pulled because her mouth is so severely infected. She will also have to be shaved clean because she is so matted from being unable to clean herself.

Robert Massey

Standard Reporter

Happy Cat Sanctuary has come to the rescue of 19 cats which were removed from a Medicine Hat residence between Nov. 2 and 13.

The residence was housing 101 cats as well as numerous other animals such as dogs, birds and reptiles. A number of rescue groups across Western Canada took the cats in. The 19 which came out to Strathmore were the second most taken by a group. Okotoks took the most cats in at 25.

"Their conditions have been assessed and they are all being treated while they stay at the sanctuary," said Michelle with Happy Cat Sanctuary.

The cats range in age and many need some form of medical attention; however, most need only minor work done. There are a few unfortunately who need more extensive work but they will all be okay, given enough time.

"Cats like Bruin and Flame will have surgery to remove damaged eyes because of infections and three others will need major dental work," said Michelle.

Bruin has actually been blind for some time, so this will not change his life much except make it less painful. The cat actually has a friend who acts as his "seeing eye cat" who goes by the name of Layla.

"She really takes care of him," said Michelle. "(Bruin) is amazing and very sweet. Somebody will be lucky to have him."

Michelle is asking that anyone interested in adopting Bruin needs to also adopt Layla and they will also need a home where the furniture doesn't get moved a lot because Bruin will actually learn his way around and know where he is going.

Of the other cats one unfortunately had to be euthanized because she had an advanced case of cancer and her body wasn't holding up well.

Michelle understands many people feel euthanizing these animals would be cheaper, but the veterinarians involved with helping the cats believe with a little time and love they will be ok.

The other cats rescued by the sanctuary are believed to be of the Himalayan, Siamese, Burmese and Exotic Short Hair breeds.

A few of these cats will be looking for a new home in just a couple of weeks, while most will be good to go by the end of December and a couple (like Blaze and Bruin) will be ready for a new home come January.

"Happy Cat is in need of donations to help in the care of these cats," said Michelle. "We are looking for everything from food, litter, blankets and of course financial donations to help pay for the cost of treating and caring for all of the cats."

The approximate cost to help these 19 animals will come in at around $3,000.

Happy Cat couldn't take in anymore cats from the home because they are already bursting at the seams. This year alone they have rescued approximately 150 cats from Strathmore and the surrounding area.

Any and all donations will go to help all the cats in the sanctuary.

"In addition to cash donations Happy Cat will be looking for foster homes and permanent homes for the cats in the next few weeks and months."

The sanctuary has already had one cat sponsored and is grateful for the help but they need a little more.

"If people wish to sponsor a cat or make a cash donation they can call us at 403-804-8571 or visit the Happy Cat website at www.happycatsanctuary.net."

These 19 cats have had a special online fund started for them through canadahelps.org and people can make a direct donation online.

Michelle is just hoping for a little help for these cats in their time of grave need.

"If you wish to donate please contact us to arrange a volunteer pick up or you can drop off your donation at The Red Carrot gift and clothing store on 3 Ave. Thank you all so much for your support."

- Michelle's last name was

not used for security reasons.