WHY SENIOR CATS MAKE THE MOST GRATEFUL PETS, AND THE VOLUNTEER WHO SAVED 100 KITTENS
Walk into any animal shelter and it is the kittens that steal the show.
But tucked away in quieter corners, older cats are often left waiting the longest for a home of their own.
The Cat Protection Society of Victoria (CPSV) wants that to change, and it is shining a light on the senior cats in our lives and the dedicated volunteers who care for them.
Why senior cats get overlooked
A CPSV spokesperson says older cats are often passed over simply because they are not as outgoing and energetic as a kitten.
"People are drawn to the look and appeal of a smaller furry friend," the spokesperson says.
"Senior cats are so smart and just grateful for the opportunity to be adopted and taken in by a family, individual or person who is ready for companionship."
"When senior cats are adopted, they seem to understand that they have been rescued and given a second chance in life, making them all the more thankful for it."
The perfect match for an older cat
According to CPSV, senior cats are often much more content than a younger kitten and are happy to simply relax in the company of their owner.
That makes them ideal for anyone wanting a calm, easy-going cat that does not need constant attention and training.
The volunteer who has saved more than 100 kittens
At the other end of the age scale, CPSV volunteers are working around the clock for the very youngest cats.
Since 2023, Deb Hargraves has been a lifeline for some of the most vulnerable abandoned kittens to arrive at the CPSV shelter in Greensborough.
In her unpaid role as a volunteer foster carer, she has saved the lives of more than 100 neonatal kittens.
Deb takes in kittens that are often only one or two days old, a role that demands extraordinary skill, commitment and emotional resilience.
It means round-the-clock bottle-feeding, sometimes every hour, careful monitoring of growth and health, and calm responses to medical emergencies.
With support from her family, Deb gives each kitten the best possible chance not just to survive, but to thrive and be ready for adoption.
"Her dedication has saved countless lives and significantly strengthened CPSV's ability to care for neonatal kittens," the spokesperson says.
Ella and Princess: sisters for life
For proof that the bond with a shelter cat can last for years, look no further than tortoiseshell sisters Ella and Princess.
Sue Flint adopted them from CPSV at five and a half months old, shortly after losing her cat of 17 years.
"I went to CPSV with my daughters, who were 12 and 9 at the time, and they helped me choose Ella and Princess," Sue says.
"We were originally going to separate them because we weren't sure about having a cat with a white nose, but my daughter insisted we keep them both, and I'm so glad we did as they were quite bonded."
"Ella is definitely the boss and is always sitting on top of Princess, while Princess is a little more independent," Sue says.
"Ella grooms Princess, but doesn't really groom herself! They have their little fights like any other cats, but they've always had each other."
Sue credits six-monthly vet check-ups and good food for their long lives, and still donates to CPSV once a year.
"I know how much these organisations do for animals, and I'm grateful that Ella and Princess found their way to us."
How to keep senior cats happy and healthy
CPSV Vet Clinic practice manager Caitlin says older cats simply need a little extra consideration as they age.
That means a comfortable, warm place to rest and easy access to food, water and litter trays.
It also means regular gentle interaction and a little patience as their needs change.
"With the right care, attention and regular veterinary support, older cats can continue to enjoy a happy, comfortable and fulfilling life well into their very senior years," Caitlin says.
If you have room in your home and your heart, take a look at the cats available for adoption at CPSV, or make a donation to support their work.
