Learn More
donate. foster. adopt.
Do you know about the size of toronto's homeless cat population?
Just because we don’t see them, doesnt mean they aren’t there.
Toronto has an estimated feral cat population — or what we prefer to call a community cat population — of anywhere between 20,000 and 100,000* cats and kittens. This number grows every year as unspayed and unneutered cats reproduce at alarming rates. Even with the best efforts of rescue organizations like Annex Cat Rescue and Toronto Animal Services, this population remains out of control with colonies of cats scattered across Toronto. Homeless cats are hiding in plain sight.
Sadder still, it is estimated that 75 percent of kittens born outside do not survive beyond their first six months of life.** The only way to reduce these unnecessary deaths and overpopulation is through comprehensive, ongoing Trap, Neuter/Spay and Return (TNR) initiatives.
*Estimate from the Toronto Humane Society
** Study done by the American Veterinary Medical Association
This is what the 100 percent volunteer-run Annex Cat Rescue has been doing for over 25 years. We also endeavour to assist members of the community via our feral/stray outreach program, founded in 2011 and answering requests for help with homeless cats and kittens in various situations. Through advice, referrals, and medical/trapping intervention where possible, we work to empower community members to become involved in cat care.
Since its inception in 1997, ACR has provided compassionate cat rescue work in Toronto, forging partnerships to help the most vulnerable cats in our midst. Our strength comes from our dedicated network of volunteers. Our work is only possible due to the generosity of our donors and supporters who work tirelessly to improve the lives of community cats in our city.
so how can you help?
There are three main ways that you can significantly impact Toronto’s community cat population.
donate
Not everyone is able to offer their time or space for community cats but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an impact. Over 95 percent of ACR’s annual expenses are for veterinary care and we are only able to provide these services thanks to the support of our generous donors. We do not receive any government funding and operate solely on the good will and funds provided through our incredible community. If you would like to donate to ACR, all contributions over $10 receive a tax receipt and you can do so here.
volunteer
Whether it’s taking a TNR certification course to get involved in trapping efforts in your local community or volunteering directly with ACR in a different capacity, we can always use more dedicated cat lovers willing to give time to the cause. You can learn more and sign up for TNR certification here, or review open ACR volunteer opportunities here.
foster
ACR is always looking for people with a quiet space who are willing to foster community cats in transition. That might mean offering a medical foster for a cat who needs treatment and recovery time for illness or injury or a socialization foster for a cat who has shown promise for living indoors. Patient and compassionate people who are willing to commit to one month or longer for these amazing cats are in short supply. Learn more and apply to foster today here.