Barn Cat Program
What is a Barn Cat?
LIVES PRIMARILY OUTDOORS - Barn Cats are rescued from outdoors, and spend most of their time outdoors.
FERAL OR SEMI FERAL - A feral cat is an unsocialized cat who has either never had any physical contact with humans, or human contact has diminished over enough time that she is no longer accustomed to it. Most feral cats are fearful or people and are not likely to ever become a lap cat or enjoy living indoors.
KEEPS AREA PEST-FREE - Barn Cats keep their barn or outdoor areas pest-free.
Why have a Barn Cat?
PEST CONTROL - Barn cats are essential to farm life. They keep your barn and yard rodent-free and tidy, and there are fewer pests when cats are around. They are very effective in keeping rodents and other critters away.
OUTDOOR COMPANIONS - Even though these cats may be feral (or “semi-sociable”), many barn cat owners find that their presence adds a special charm to farm life. They become silent guardians of your property, offering companionship in their own unique way as they go about their daily routines.
Where do they come from?
RESCUES - They've been rescued from perilous situations and can no longer safely remain in their original locations.
REASONS FOR RELOCATION - Relocating outdoor cats is a serious decision we don't take lightly. It can be risky for the cats, as they lose their familiar territory and food sources. We only relocate when it's absolutely necessary for their survival and well-being. Some of these reasons include:
Caretakers moving or experiencing significant lifestyle changes
Threats from neighbors (e.g. poisoning)
Instances of animal cruelty or torture
Other circumstances that jeopardize the cats' safety
NO SHORTAGE - Unfortunately there is never a shortage of outdoor cats that need a home.
Adoption and Requirements
PAIRS ONLY - To ease the transition and provide companionship, we place barn cats in pairs.
SAFE OUTDOOR ACCES - After the confinement period, cats should have access to a secure outdoor area for roaming and hunting.
SHELTER - A barn, shed, garage, or sturdy outbuilding that protects from weather and predators is essential.
BASIC CARE - While independent, barn cats still need regular food, water, and medical attention when necessary.
Bringing Your Barn Cat Home
INITIAL ACCLIMATION - Have a large crate in the shelter you want them to claim as home.
Keep them here for ~2-4 weeks, providing food, water, and a litter box. This is crucial for:
Imprinting the new feeding location
Establishing a sense of safety
Preventing the cats from attempting to return to their old territory
OPENING UP - After this acclimation period, open the crate so they can roam free. Keep feeding and providing water. You may eventually remove the litter, as the cats should begin to go outside.
ESTABLISHING HOME - Always keep providing food and water - this will keep your cats coming back for more. After several weeks, your cat should be used to their new home, happily roaming about but always coming back.