A stray I was feeding just had a litter.  Can Cat’s Cradle take the kittens?

We’re sorry, we seldom have room to take in kittens. We recommend you have them altered and find homes for them. We may be able to help you get them spayed or neutered, as well as the mama cat. You can also read about how to rehome cats on our Adoption page.

I can’t catch the stray I’m feeding, and I want to get him neutered. Can you help?

Yes, we provide trapping assistance within our service area. Please see our Spay Neuter

Where can I find low-cost spay/neuter services for a cat or a dog?

If you live near Harrisonburg, VA, you can use the Shenandoah Valley Spay and Neuter Clinic. For low cost spay/neuter outside this area, go to pets911.com/services/spayneuter/. Enter your zip code, then click on “Other Pets 911 Locations” (third one down on the page.)

Can I get low cost vaccines and health care for the stray I took in?

The Shenandoah Valley Spay Neuter Clinic offers low-cost vaccines and testing at the time of spay/neuter surgery.  For follow-up vaccines, we recommend you go to your regular veterinarian. Occasionally shelters or Animal Control agencies will have vaccine clinics; watch for these in the paper.

Declawing — should I or shouldn’t I?

We do not recommend it. It can cause permanent pain and behavior difficulties with your cat. We do not de-claw, or allow our adopters to de-claw. Here’s some good advice on what you can do instead.

I have to get rid of my cat — can you find him/her a new home?

We would be glad to advise you on how to either be able to keep your cat or how to best find a new home. First, please read the Rehoming section on our Adoptions page.

My cat is not using the litter box — what can I do?

First make sure your cat doesn’t have a urinary infection — check with your vet. Sometimes cats won’t share a litter box, or won’t use it if it isn’t pristine. Here’s some more pointers.

Where can I find advice on cat and dog behavior?

We like this site. It has a comprehensive list of helpful articles for both cats and dogs.

I’m allergic; what can I do?

Many allergy and asthma suffers can still keep their cats — try “Simple Solution” anti allergy product from a pet supply store such as PetSmart. You just wipe it on your cat with a cloth once a week — the cat likes it because it’s just like being petted. It’s non-toxic too. Of course you should run this by your doctor as well!