Inside Scoop: Feline Care Department

I have worked at Wayside for almost three years now, and something I’ve noticed is whenever I speak to the general public about working here, they are interested in the animals, but they are also curious about the inside jobs of staff and volunteers. Today, I’ve decided to highlight the Feline Care Department. Kitten Season is a time when shelters see an increase in pregnant adult cats and many young kittens who need extra care. During the summer months, kitten season is at an all-time high, but the feline care team are prepared for anything.

This is Sarah, a previous adoptions counselor who switched departments because it worked better for her schedule. Here she is pictured caring for Ford, who is sick with a mild upper respiratory infection. We were discussing her favorite part of the job, and as soon as she opened Ford’s door, he went in for snuggles.

“This. This is the best.” Sarah went on to say that, “In Adoptions, we knew the big picture of taking care of the animals, but I didn’t know there was this much that goes into it. It’s nice to see their journey and to help them along the way.”

I asked Sarah what the feline care team is doing to prepare for kitten season.

“Honestly, we are going with the flow for now. We have space still, so we are always prepared for something different everyday. We also are watching for illness more than the usual amount. With moms and kittens, their immune systems are weakened, so I look for signs of illness immediately.”

This is Lauretta, another previous adoptions counselor turn feline care technician. Lauretta switched departments for a full-time position, and is enjoying the new job. Here she is getting a fresh litter box for some kittens in our Kitten Nursery ward. That room is usually designated for pregnant or nursing mothers and kittens. Lauretta typically worked in cat adoptions, but she enjoys seeing their journey throughout their stay.

“I honestly like seeing how they grow throughout their stay here. They either need help with their shyness or they need medical treatment, or maybe they just want cuddles. I like seeing their progress.” She also thinks cats in general are pretty great!

 

This is less than half of our other feline care technicians. We also have team members Shannon, Chris, Sheila, and the feline care manager Bonnie. They are all fantastic in what they do and give 110% in caring for our cats. Bonnie had some insight as to what it is like managing such a wonderful department, and what her favorite part is!

“I would have to say when staff thinks outside the box or takes initiative to do more or to find a way to improve a process. Growth for them.”

Many shelters are already full, but kitten season promises to be as lively as ever. Consider brushing up on your city’s animal control policies and contact shelters to see their availability. Be cautious if you have a raised deck, and check under your car before driving and around the tires. Mother cats often try to find hard to reach places to protect their litter. Most importantly, stay cool out there!

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Written by Teryn