Omagh charity says 'don't kitten around' as 4,659 cats neutered in nine years

A LOCAL Omagh charity is urging cat owners not to paws for thought too long this spring, as it marks nine years of keeping feline numbers firmly under control.

The Clara Cat Neutering Project, based on the Gortin Road, has neutered an impressive 4,659 cats across the Omagh area over the past nine years, helping to prevent thousands of unwanted litters and giving local vets and cat rescuers a much-needed helping paw.

With spring in the air - and romance on the minds of many four-legged residents - the charity is reminding owners that female cats can become pregnant from just four months old and can go on to have multiple litters each year if left unneutered.

Neutering male cats also comes with purr-ks, as it makes them far less likely to roam the countryside or get into hiss-fits with rival toms in their search for a mate.

To get ahead of the annual spring “kitten boom”, the Clara Cat Neutering Project is encouraging owners to book early and take advantage of its neutering scheme, which is offered for a donation only:

l £15 per cat for owners on means-tested benefits (proof required)

l £30 per cat for all other owners

l Microchipping for £10 per cat when carried out at the same time as neutering

However, places are limited, with only 30 cats per month able to be accommodated - meaning procrastinators may find themselves left out in the cold (or the cat flap).

Appointments can be made by contacting Corry & O’Hate Veterinary Practice on 028 8224 3909.

After nine years of service, the charity has confirmed that it has now ended its Trap-Neuter-Return programme for feral cats, citing the age and health of its volunteers. Despite this, the project will continue to focus on supporting local pet owners and keeping future feline numbers in check.

The Clara Cat Neutering Project is run by just three unpaid trustees and operates as a small, local non-profit charity - proof that big results can come from a very small litter.

For advice or further information, cat owners can contact 077 8341 2500, email claracnp@outlook.com, or find the group on Facebook.