Are you searching for a safe and nurturing environment for cats in need? Welcome to Happy Cats Haven, a non-profit rescue and adoption center dedicated to providing a loving refuge for homeless cats and kittens. We believe every cat deserves a happy life, and we commit to their care until they find their forever homes. Operating as a mostly cage-free shelter, we ensure a comfortable and enriching space for approximately 25-35 cats at any given time. Our commitment extends to a no-kill policy, except in cases of severe health or behavioral issues where quality of life is significantly compromised.
Surrendering Your Cat to Happy Cats Haven
If you find yourself in the difficult position of needing to surrender your cat or kitten, Happy Cats Haven is here to help. Please call us at 719-362-4600 to request a Surrender Application and schedule a brief interview with our compassionate shelter staff. We understand that circumstances vary, and we encourage you to share any special considerations you may have.
While we strive to accommodate every cat as quickly as possible, our capacity fluctuates daily, meaning immediate intake isn’t always guaranteed. If you are planning ahead, ideally with at least 30 days’ notice, we will make every effort to align with your timeline. If a waiting list is in effect, it’s crucial to check in with us monthly to maintain your position and demonstrate your continued need for our services.
Guidelines for Cat Intake at Happy Cats Haven
Happy Cats Haven carefully considers each cat’s admission to ensure the well-being of our existing feline residents and the suitability of our shelter for the new arrival. Admission is based on a combination of factors, including verbal history, medical records, physical assessment, and available space. Our primary guidelines include:
- FeLV Negative Status: Cats must test negative for Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) to protect our colony’s health.
- Human-Friendly Temperament: Even if shy, cats must exhibit a friendly disposition towards humans to ensure a safe environment for staff and volunteers.
- Reasonable Health: Cats should be generally healthy and free from transmittable diseases and parasites to prevent the spread of illness within the shelter.
- Senior and Special Needs Cats: We assess senior cats (over 8 years old) and cats with special needs on a case-by-case basis, recognizing their often greater need for veterinary care and adjusting intake fees accordingly.
- Surrender Application Requirement: Owners must complete a Surrender Application, obtainable by calling us.
- Appointment-Based Surrenders: Surrenders are by appointment only. Walk-in surrenders will be provided with an application and placed on the waiting list if they meet initial guidelines. Monthly check-ins are required to remain on the waiting list.
Priority Intake Considerations
To streamline intake and prioritize urgent cases, Happy Cats Haven gives preference to healthy cats already tested for FeLV/FIV and those with recent veterinary care records. For cost-effective FeLV/FIV testing, we recommend Hamlett Spay & Neuter Clinic and the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region. Alternatively, we can arrange testing through our partner veterinarians.
As a private, non-profit organization, Happy Cats Haven reserves the right to refuse any surrender that does not align with the best interests of the shelter and our feline residents, based on our established principles, policies, and standards.
Additional Resources from Happy Cats Haven
Are you searching for a lost cat? Please call us at 719-362-4600 to inquire. You may also find valuable tips in our article, New Tips for Finding Your Lost Cat.
If we are unable to accommodate your cat due to space limitations, we encourage you to explore other local rescue organizations listed on our Other Cat Rescues resource page.
For those needing assistance with outdoor cats, our TNRCare page provides comprehensive information on Trap-Neuter-Release programs. The Humane Society also offers a Barn Cat Buddies program for placing outdoor cats in barn homes; they can be reached at 719-302-8786.
Happy Cats Haven remains dedicated to serving cats and our community. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.
