School of Veterinary Science staff help homeless kittens

Stray kittens currently calling The University of Queensland home will benefit from an innovative program to get them socialised, desexed and rehomed into loving families.

Passionate staff at the St Lucia Small Animal Teaching Hospital, the Gatton Clinical Studies Centre and the Centre for Companion Animal Health, School of Veterinary Science are keen to make a positive impact on the lives of these kittens and prevent them from being euthanized.

Led by Dr Sarah Zito and Professor Jacquie Rand from the School of Veterinary Science, in collaboration with Rebekah Scotney, Manager of the Clinical Studies Centre and assisted by many of their colleagues including vet nurse Nicole Laird, this project will provide an opportunity for the stray kittens to be socialised and find homes.

"We are passionate about helping these kittens and look forward to being able to rehome as many as possible," Dr Zito said.

Professor Jacquie Rand from the Centre for Companion Animal Health has a major research focus around preventing euthanasia of homeless and unwanted pets, and sees this project as one strategy that can make a real difference.

"We are now entering the kitten season, so it is vital that we get support for this project as soon as possible. Preventing litters of kittens being born is absolutely essential otherwise they will sadly face certain death because shelters are overwhelmed with kittens," Professor Rand said.

The Centre has committed start-up funds to ensure the program gets off the ground, but very urgently needs on-going support to ensure all the homeless kittens are socialised, desexed and rehomed.

"Eventually we will put in place a longer-term desexing plan to reduce the ongoing problem of adult cats on campus having unwanted litters of kittens," Dr Zito said.

"But we really need funds to make this happen so we urge any staff who want to help to donate today."

Support has already been gratefully received from Hill’s Pet Nutrition who will provide food for the kittens, and Novartis who are donating vital worming medications.

Donations can be made online. Tick under the Centre for Companion Animal Health – Preventing unwanted and problem pets, or contact Julia Keith on 334 67257 or email j.keith2@uq.edu.au for a donation coupon.

Donations of bowls, towels, blankets and litter boxes would also be of assistance.

Passionate animal lovers who would be willing to foster and help socialise these cats and kittens should contact the Centre at ccah@uq.edu.au.