Working Cat Program
WARL Working Cat Program
Do you have a farm, brewery or other type of outbuilding that could provide safety and shelter for a feisty feline? Consider adopting a working cat, also known as a barn cat. The WARL Working Cat Program is a specialized adoption program for cats that are not well suited for an indoor-only lifestyle. These cats will thrive in environments with more space and a job to do.
Who are Working Cats?
Cats in the WARL Working Cat Program fall into one or more of the following categories:
- Undersocialized cats who prefer to keep their distance from humans.
- Feisty cats that play too rough when kept indoors only.
- Cats with inappropriate litter box habits.
- Cats who previously lived as outdoor pets.
Cats selected for the WARL Working Cat Program are specifically chosen due to behaviors they have exhibited in the shelter or in their previous homes. Cats who are suitable to be household companions are not part of this program.
Where can a working cat live?
Here are some examples:
- Breweries
- Farms
- Garages
- Outbuildings
- Warehouses
- Wineries
Working cat adoptions include:
We spay or neuter, vaccinate, and microchip all of our working cats. At the time of adoption, we will go over how to acclimate your working cat to their new environment.
Each working cat’s adoption fee ($50) helps WARL cover the cost of care and any needed medical treatment during their stay in the shelter.
What You Provide
- Shelter with protection from the elements
- Daily food and water
- Lifelong veterinary care, as needed
- A secure place to keep the cat for the first couple of weeks while they acclimate to their new environment
If you are adopting a working cat during the months of October through April, you will need to provide a heated area until the cold months are over. Next winter the cat will grow a winter coat and will not require a heat source, although they always appreciate one. If you adopt a working cat during the spring/summer/early fall, your cat will naturally grow a heavy winter coat as the cold weather approaches.
Things to consider
The care of a working cat is an important responsibility. Like all pets we place for adoption, you will be assuming care for the cat for its lifetime. If you are interested in learning more about the WARL Working Cat Program, please email us at [email protected]