IN commemoration of Global Cat Day, local organisation The Feline Connection is hosting the Creatives for Cats Art Exhibition in October at the Fields Centre in Kloof. The creative collaboration was to raise awareness of the plight of homeless cats during Global Cat Day while showcasing art by local artists and cat pieces by learners from Kloof Senior Primary School.

With this year’s theme of Global Cat Day being ‘Cats are Community’, Janine Kyle of The Feline Connection said it ties in with the project as it is all about ‘community’ connections.

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“‘All lives matter’ is a phrase often coined – indeed, all lives should matter and be shown compassion and dignity, however, these sentient beings are disregarded in our society with little to no value being placed upon their lives. Ultimately, these cats are living as they are as a result of humankind’s lack of accountability and compassion. Community cats are the result of people who do not care and can only be helped by those who do,” she said.

Kyle said that more education, awareness and understanding need to be administered towards the plight of these ‘forgotten felines’. Trap, sterilise and release (and vaccination against rabies) is vital in combating overpopulation. The cycle of suffering will continue without a concerted effort to sterilise community cats and reduce the number of kittens born into hardship.

Kyle further encouraged community members who feed community cats to also arrange for them to be sterilised as this is a vital component of feeding and creating managed colonies. Businesses, schools, factories and buildings where cats congregate should participate in humane solutions and assist where possible.

“Humanity has little insight into these intelligent and resilient creatures who are shown so little kindness. There is a shortage of trappers as well as volunteers to assist with caring for colonies. Most trappers and carers are self-funded, and many of the trappers are elderly, braving the often dangerous areas where these cats are trying to survive. If you want to save lives, sponsor a sterilisation,” she said.

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Kyle extended her gratitude to the supporters of this course, including the Fields Centre in Kloof. She further invited the community to volunteer their time. Interested members can email The Feline Connection at felineconnection@creativecollab.co.za and follow their Facebook page.

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