Bathurst cat desexing program aimed at improving animal welfare

Cat Protection Society’s Operation Cat Bathurst initiative will run from January 14 to February 22, or when 80 cats have been booked in, whichever occur sooner.

It will cost $50 for cats to be desexed, which will also include a F3 vaccination and microchipped at no extra charge.

Cat Protection chief executive officer Kristina Vesk said desexing provides many health benefits to cats.

“There’s a reduced risk of cancers and less risk of disease and injury,” she said.

“Early-age desexing – before four months – prevents the development of unwanted behaviours such as spraying and also means the cat is less likely to wander and get into fights with other cats.

“Unless you’re a registered breeder, there is no reason not to desex your cat and there are many reasons to desex them.”

The F3 vaccination will help prevent cat against the deadly parvovirus, while microchipping helps owners be reunited with their pets when they go missing.

The latest Operation Cat Bathurst is the third time the program has taken place in the Bathurst Regional Council, partnering with local vets Durham Street Veterinary Clinic and Stewart Street Veterinary Hospital.

Ms Vesk said Cat Protection is already making a real difference to feline welfare in Bathurst.

“No one wants to see stray cats and kittens, or cats and kittens euthanased simply because there aren’t enough homes,” she said.

“Desexing is the only humane solution to feline overpopulation.

“Together we can keep cats and kittens safe and healthy, improve local amenity and protect wildlife.

“Working with the local community, we’re making a real difference to feline welfare in Bathurst.”

Bookings for Operation Cat must be made by first phoning Cat Protection on 9519 7201 (Monday to Friday, 9am and 4pm).

The program is limited to 80 places and to qualify, cat owners must be reside within the Bathurst region and hold a health care card and make payment at the time of booking in the program.