Local shelter offers advice for helping stray cats this season

CARROLL COUNTY, Tenn. — Stray cats are becoming more visible across the region as the weather warms up.

Many can be found near abandoned buildings or outdoor dumpsters where they might find accessible food or shelter.

Carroll County Humane Society shared advice for anyone hoping to help a cat. Catherine Perritt, kennel director for Carroll County Human Society, said people should have a plan before picking up an animal.

“I think first a lot of people think that they’re doing something good by picking an animal up, and I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but have a plan, because finding an available space or an available rescue is not always easy,” Perritt said.

Many shelters have waiting lists and update capacity caps. Perritt said the shelter calls animals in off the waiting list as space becomes available.

“When something is adopted out, ideally a kennel is opened up,” Perritt said.

The shelter said it is always looking for ways to help as space and resources allow. It offers vouchers for spaying and neutering.

Adoption can help free up space and resources for other animals still waiting. Fostering can also make a difference for those not ready to commit long-term.

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