Hempstead Town Adds New Cattery to Animal Shelter

The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter just opened a new cattery so shelter cats will have additional room to stretch their legs and socialize with both feline and human companions.

A cattery is an open space where cats can socialize and play at the shelter, instead of being confined in cages all day.

“We are very proud to open this new cattery at the Hempstead Town Animal Shelter,” said Town Supervisor Anthony Santino. “We are confident that this new facility will enhance the quality of life for our shelter cats and, in the long run, increase their chances of being adopted.”

The new cattery is 10 feet by 22 feet, and includes cat trees, scratching posts, toys and windowsills with views of the outdoors. All cats have access to food, clean water and litterboxes.

The cattery will benefit felines that are not completely comfortable in an enclosed space, allowing them to experience an environment much like that of a future adopter’s home or apartment. In some cases, residents will be able to spend time in the cattery with a cat that they are interested in adopting, under the supervision of a shelter staff member.

The town shelter boast the largest, most comprehensive trap, neuter and return (TNR) Program on Long Island. Since the program began in December 2010, the shelter has spayed/neutered more than 12,800 cats.

Residents interested in helping shelter cats can become foster volunteers, in which they would temporarily house a shelter cat or kitten to help provide care and acclimate the feline to living in a home.

"The Town of Hempstead is committed to providing the best possible environment for our feline population," Santino said. "Of course, the ultimate goal is for our shelter’s cats and kittens to find permanent homes, and we encourage our residents to adopt from our shelter."

The Hempstead Town Animal Shelter is located at 3320 Beltagh Avenue in Wantagh. For more information, call the Shelter at (516) 785-5220 or visit www.toh.li/animal-shelter.

Photos: Town of Hempstead