September 6, 2005

Cat owners urged to do the right thing

North Shore City Council is calling on pet owners to help reduce the number of stray and unwanted cats in the city.

Auckland Cat Rescue, in conjunction with the Pet and Vet Clinic in Milford, and with the support of the council, is offering a special discount on the cost of de-sexing cats during the first two weeks of October.

Stray and unwanted cats are a common problem in many parts of the city, but pet owners can help greatly reduce the number by being responsible and doing the right thing, says Auckland Cat Rescue chairperson, Kate Winn.

"With kitten season fast approaching, there is no better time to de-sex your cat. It is important to do this early before female cats become pregnant (from 4-5 months of age) or before males start fighting, spraying or wandering", says Ms Winn.

For the first two weeks of October, North Shore City residents can have their pets neutered for just $20 (males) or spayed for $35 (females). The normal cost ranges between $45 to $110.

For more information pet owners should visit: www.aucklandcatrescue.org/desex; email Auckland Cat Rescue on desex@aucklandcatrescue.org; or phone Pet & Vet (Milford) 09 489 6263.

Ms Winn says de-sexing is the most important thing an owner can do for their cat, not only for its general health but to break the cycle of thousands of unwanted cats and kittens each year.

ENDS

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