News Archives - The Community Cats Podcast

News

June 9, 2016
June 9, 2016

Welcome to our community!

Welcome to the Community Cats Podcast website. I am thrilled to be launching this website where we, as a community, can help more community cats. What is a community cat you ask?  Community Cats are cats that are either feral (born in the wild-outdoors), abandoned cats, or owned indoor/outdoor cats […]
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June 20, 2016
June 20, 2016

The Phases of Feline Over-Population

Huge thanks to Lisa Finkel and Liz Pease from the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society in working tirelessly to help create this wonderful Phases of Feline Over-Population model with our fearless leader, Stacy LeBaron! Stacy LeBaron has been active in the animal welfare field since 1994. She envisions a no-kill nation, where all […]
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July 11, 2016
To-Relocate-or-Not-To-Relocate-That-is-the-Question
July 11, 2016

To Relocate or Not To Relocate – That is the Question

Summertime is when our trappers are their most active. We are so busy handling calls about kittens in distress, feral mothers and cat fights.  It is, by far, when cats are their most visible in the community. It seems like everyone wants community cats gone in July and August! Trust me, […]
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July 18, 2016
Fee-Waived-Adoptions-Help-Organization
July 18, 2016

Fee-Waived Adoptions Can Help Your Organization

This is the time of year when fee-waived adoption events are happening all of the time. Fee-Waived Adoptions Can Help Your Organization! Whether it be within specific organizations or in the community, as a whole, it has been seen to help reduce the overpopulation of cats and kittens in adoption […]
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August 15, 2016
Ten-tips-for-statewide-success-in-identifying-spay/neuter-black-holes
August 15, 2016

Ten tips for statewide success in identifying spay/neuter black holes

Before I get started with this week’s blog, I want to thank everyone who has supported the Community Cats Podcast and has put up a review on iTunes! I just want to send a shout out to: GPCatCrew, Anuki21, kitkat76, HL Cat Lover, julieinmd3, HubCats105 and the UrbanCatCoalition for the […]
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August 22, 2016
Abandonment-Uptick
August 22, 2016

Abandonment Uptick – 5 Tips to Manage the Intake Flow

As the end of summer approaches, we begin to have a larger inflow of surrenders to our shelters. Why does this happen? Yes, we have the addition of kittens coming into our shelters, but in areas where the kitten population is somewhat under control most kitten surrenders can primarily be […]
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August 29, 2016
How-to-Find-an-Organization-to-Volunteer With
August 29, 2016

How to Find an Organization to Volunteer With

Have you been thinking about ways that you can get involved in the community around you? Are you confused where to start, but would really like to start volunteering somewhere that will make a difference? If this sounds like you, it is easier than you think when it comes to How […]
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September 5, 2016
Prepare-for-Winter-and-Prep-Community-Cat-Shelters
September 5, 2016

Prepare for Winter and Prep Community Cat Shelters

With Fall right around the corner it is time to start thinking now about winterizing and cleaning out your feeding stations and feral cat housing. I can’t tell you how many times our committee members have run around at the end of October/early November getting our shelters and feeding stations […]
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September 12, 2016
September 12, 2016

What Does a Humane Community Look Like for Cats

From backyards to large cities, we live in a world with many communities. My family is a community, my friends are a community, my neighborhood, my town…. okay you get it! So, What Does a Humane Community Look Like for Cats? We are currently so focused on shelter statistics that I […]
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September 19, 2016
What-Is-A-Managed-Colony
September 19, 2016

What Is A Managed Colony

What is a managed colony? Why is it important to manage colonies? It is just a quick fix! Over the last five or so years our language has changed about Community Cats. We now call them “Community Cats” instead of feral cats, free-roaming cats and stray cats. Why the change […]
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October 3, 2016
My-Love-Hate-Relationship-with-Social-Media
October 3, 2016

My Love/Hate Relationship with Social Media

On September 23, I had the opportunity to attend the Agents of Change (#AOC2016) conference in Portand, Maine. This was an all day “love in” for all things social media. For me, this was a great opportunity to learn from the experts about some of the best practices in the […]
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October 10, 2016
community-cats-education
October 10, 2016

What about Kids? Ideas and Tips for Community Cat Education

I must admit that I have been remiss over the years when it came to neglecting the importance of Community Cats Education. What about Kids? Ideas and Tips for Community Cat Education is such an important hurdle. We need the next generation to get excited about Community Cats! Over the […]
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October 17, 2016
happy-national-feral-cat-day
October 17, 2016

Happy National Feral Cat Day

Happy National Feral Cat Day!   On this day I want us to take a moment to focus on what National Feral Cat Day means to us. I specifically want to focus on the word “Feral”. We’ve gotten a bit away from identifying our free-roaming cat populations and just putting all cats […]
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October 24, 2016
What-to-do-When-Tragedy-Strikes
October 24, 2016

What to do When Tragedy Strikes

The past couple of weeks has been very tough on the little community that I live in, in Vermont. Some of you may have heard about the terrible accident that happened over Columbus Day weekend, killing five teenagers. While I didn’t know the kids personally, my son is a seventh […]
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October 31, 2016
tips-and-tricks-for-community-cats-at-halloween
October 31, 2016

Tips and Tricks for Community Cats at Halloween

With today being Halloween, I thought I would mention a few Tips and Tricks for Community Cats at Halloween. These will ensure that you, your community cats and house cats stay safe during this favorite holiday for kids! For the Community Cats:  If you feed cats at night between 5-8pm, you […]
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November 14, 2016
Raising Money for Community Cats
November 14, 2016

Raising Money for Community Cats

Raising Money for Community Cats. It’s not a lot different than what happened the day the furnace died! I will never forget this day! It was early November about 5 years ago. I was at the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society adoption center in Salisbury, going about my usual day. […]
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November 28, 2016
Transport or Not To Transport
November 28, 2016

Transport or Not To Transport

Happy Cyber Monday! I hope everyone had a safe and happy Thanksgiving Holiday and was able to enjoy their family and loved ones. If you are doing your online shopping this fine Monday morning, feel free to take a quick look at our Community Cats Podcast Store. All proceeds go […]
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December 5, 2016
Playing in the Sandbox! 10 Reasons For Coalitions and How To Do It
December 5, 2016

Playing in the Sandbox! 10 Reasons For Coalitions and How To Do It

As many of you know, sandboxes are places that cats often use as litter boxes and many caregivers need to negotiate possible ways to keep cats out of sandboxes in communities. It’s time for Playing in the Sandbox! 10 Reasons For Coalitions and How To Do It is what I […]
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December 12, 2016
How to Retire an Old Feral Cat
December 12, 2016

How to Retire an Old Feral Cat

Well, the snow is finally here in Vermont and everything is looking very festive! This week, we’re going to discuss How to Retire an Old Feral Cat. But between Christmas and New Year’s we will be replaying our greatest hits from the 2016 season. You will be hearing from Hannah […]
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December 19, 2016
Happy Holidays from the Community Cats Podcast
December 19, 2016

Happy Holidays from the Community Cats Podcast

Happy Holidays from the Community Cats Podcast! In this week’s blog, I wanted to talk about the Greatest Hits line up, Being Thankful and Thoughts about Cats in Aleppo. I can’t believe we are already at the end of December. It seems like just last June when we were launching our […]
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December 26, 2016
December 26, 2016

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from the Community Cats Podcast

With 2016 coming to a close… …it’s the time of year that we reflect on what we’ve accomplished both as organizations and as individuals. Our listeners have been very busy in 2016! Check out our video containing the pictures they’ve submitted to showcase their community cat and animal welfare efforts […]
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January 23, 2017
My 13 Favorite (Mostly Free) Online Tools
January 23, 2017

My 13 Favorite (Mostly Free) Online Tools

This week I would like to cover My 13 Favorite (Mostly Free) Online Tools that I use to help manage people, time, and programs. For those of you who know more personally you know this is a favorite topic of mine. I think that technology is the best thing that […]
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January 30, 2017
10 Fearless Fundraising Events For Those Starting Out
January 30, 2017

10 Fearless Fundraising Events For Those Starting Out

If you are new to running a non-profit, part of a small group, or just joining a group, thinking about fundraising can be overwhelming! I began my fundraising journey back in 7th grade, when I became treasurer of my class. We had to raise money to help pay for a […]
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February 6, 2017
How to Track Those Pesky Grants
February 6, 2017

How to Track Those Pesky Grants

Managing grant applications can be a nightmare if it isn’t done right! The foundations you potentially work with are prospects that can mean bringing in real dollars to your organization. But it is an incredible challenge to track your potential funders, those organizations that you have applied too and then […]
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February 13, 2017
Why Adopting Two Kitties Is Better Than One
February 13, 2017

Make It A Double! Why Adopting Two Kitties Is Better Than One

Happy day before Valentine’s Day! I hope you and your loved ones have a good day filled with Chocolate and Catnip. When we think about Valentine’s Day we think about couples. Today I would like to list some of the many reason why adopting two cats or kittens are better […]
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February 20, 2017
Love your Pet Day
February 20, 2017

Love your Pet Day – Can We Adopt Our Way Out of Pet Overpopulation?

Over the last couple of weeks, Merritt Clifton’s online publication has had several guest posts about why spay/neuter is the solution to our pet overpopulation problems around the world! Yes, folks, we are going to start addressing this issue on a worldwide scale. What perfect timing, as today is Love your […]
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March 6, 2017
March is Microchipping Madness Month
March 6, 2017

March is Microchipping Madness Month

Can you believe we have already hit the month of March? It seems crazy how quickly the year is going by, but we’re excited because March is Microchipping Madness Month! How do you feel about microchipping your cat? It’s definitely not as prevalent as microchipping in our canine counterparts, but […]
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March 13, 2017
The Nuts and Bolts of a Donation Jar Campaign
March 13, 2017

The Nuts and Bolts of a Donation Jar Campaign

The Nuts and Bolts of a Donation Jar Campaign is something many of our groups in The Community Cats Grants ponder during their fundraising efforts. We currently have 40 groups from 18 different states working hard to raise money for their spay/neuter programs that help community cats! More info to […]
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March 20, 2017
TNRM, A New Acronym for Stray Cats
March 20, 2017

TNRM, A New Acronym for Stray Cats

I have long been a great fan of return to field programs. Without even knowing what return to field was, MRFRS was running free spay/neuter clinics for feral cats. Anyone could bring a cat in a trap to our monthly clinics and get them spay/neutered, vaccinated and ear tipped for […]
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March 27, 2017
March 27, 2017

We went to Cat Camp NYC

If you passed by the Metropolitan Pavillion in New York City a couple of weekends ago, you probably noticed more than a few people wearing cat ears and excitedly waiting to get out of the chilly weather and into Cat Camp NYC. That’s right… We went to Cat Camp NYC! The […]
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April 3, 2017
How Shelters and Rescues Can Work Better Together For Cats
April 3, 2017

How Shelters and Rescues Can Work Better Together For Cats

There are many ways on How Shelters and Rescues Can Work Better Together For Cats. Over the last 20 years, thousands of small cat rescue organizations have started all across the country. Many of these groups focus on foster, adoption, and trap, neuter and return. In the early days, many […]
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April 10, 2017
Preparing for Kitten Season and Trapping
April 10, 2017

Preparing for Kitten Season and Trapping

Unfortunately kitten season either is upon us or will soon be here. I thought I would pass along some tips you can use for Preparing for Kitten Season and Trapping. I want you to have a successful year! For the Foster Home Coordinator 1. Check-In If you are a foster […]
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April 17, 2017
Community Cats Grants Equals More Money to Spay it Forward
April 17, 2017

Community Cats Grants Equals More Money to Spay it Forward

The First Community Cats Grants group is just about to finish up their fundraisers and raise thousands of dollars to help fund spay/neuter for cats in their communities! I just love how Community Cats Grants Equals More Money to Spay it Forward! I wanted to share a listing of who participated […]
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April 24, 2017
How to Handle Volatile Volunteers and Negative Nellies
April 24, 2017

How to Handle Volatile Volunteers and Negative Nellies

Volunteerism is what drives our profession in animal welfare. We wouldn’t be able to do 90% of our work without volunteer help! Most of our boards of directors are run by volunteers, along with our cat caretakers and trappers being volunteers, too. Our foster homes are volunteers and fundraisers and […]
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May 1, 2017
No-Kill Shelters Versus No-Kill Communities
May 1, 2017

No-Kill Shelters Versus No-Kill Communities

It seems like this month has been filled will lots of conversations about the word “No-Kill” and what it means. How will all of the data that we are collecting to create a country full of No-Kill shelters impact the overall wellness of our communities for Community Cats? So, when […]
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May 8, 2017
Backyard Cat Fence
May 8, 2017

Cat Adopters Need to Install a Backyard Cat Fence and Here’s Why

Join us for a guest blog post this week from Jennifer Smith of EasyPetFence! She provides her thoughts on why providing a Backyard Cat Fence is a good option for all of your cats. Cat Adopters Need to Install a Backyard Cat Fence and Here’s Why! When I talk to cat […]
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May 15, 2017
Feline Fix by Five and Why This Would Make a Huge Difference
May 15, 2017

Feline Fix by Five and Why This Would Make a Huge Difference

This week I want to discuss the Feline Fix by Five and Why This Would Make a Huge Difference! The program, created by Marion’s Dream and inspired by Esther Mechler, has always seemed like such an easy thing to do. All it asks is that we get our cats spayed or […]
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May 22, 2017
Feline Leukemia Positive Cats and Why to Adopt Them Out
May 22, 2017

Feline Leukemia Positive Cats and Why to Adopt Them Out

Before we talk about Feline Leukemia Positive Cats and Why to Adopt Them Out, I want to give a big thank you to everyone who participated in the Annual Survey! I had some fantastic responses and it is clear that you all enjoy the podcast. We’ve also got some great […]
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June 19, 2017
It’s all about Spay/Neuter Baby
June 19, 2017

It’s all about Spay/Neuter Baby

Today I am jumping back up on my spay/neuter soapbox and share with you some great statistics that I have. It’s all about Spay/Neuter Baby! The stats prove that high volume and accessible spay/neuter is what will truly make a difference in lives saved in your community. In 2008 a […]
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June 26, 2017
How To Understand The Body Language Of Your Cat
June 26, 2017

How To Understand The Body Language Of Your Cat

Are you anxious to know what your cat wants to tell you? If it talks to you, would you be able to understand it? Learn How To Understand The Body Language Of Your Cat! Of course, you won’t know everything. But, you can definitely know about its mood from its body […]
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July 3, 2017
5 Tips for Keeping Sane During the Summer with Kittens Everywhere
July 3, 2017

5 Tips for Keeping Sane During the Summer with Kittens Everywhere

Hey everyone, Happy Summer! When I would hear those words I would just dread what I knew was going to come my way, lots and lots of requests for help with kittens and foster care. So these 5 Tips for Keeping Sane During the Summer with Kittens Everywhere will help! It […]
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July 17, 2017
How to Introduce Cats to New Environments
July 17, 2017

How to Introduce Cats to New Environments

Introducing your new cat to your home can be very stressful not only on you, but also the cat. So How to Introduce Cats to New Environments? Stress levels can become more elevated if there are other animals or small kids involved. Introducing your new feline friend to your home […]
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July 24, 2017
Applying Broken Window Theory to Prevent Hoarding Situations
July 24, 2017

Applying Broken Window Theory to Prevent Hoarding Situations

I know that many of my recent blog posts have focused on the fact that we are overwhelmed with kittens. We also have so many requests for assistance, along with many more things going on. Today I am going to continue on that trend by discussing Applying Broken Window Theory […]
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August 21, 2017
When Volunteers Leave at the End of the Summer
August 21, 2017

The Summer Time Blues – When Volunteers Leave at the End of the Summer

The end of August is always bitter sweet in the shelters. We are full to the brim with lots and lots of cats and kittens. Our foster homes are tired, trappers are tired and to top it off… our summer volunteers are leaving us to go back to school. It […]
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August 28, 2017
A Call to Action for Creating Statewide Community Cat Networks
August 28, 2017

A Call to Action for Creating Statewide Community Cat Networks

Since 2004 there has been a network of cat trappers and rescuers who have worked together to help curb feline over population in Massachusetts. It is called Masscats and is a simple yahoo group that follows the framework of freecycle. This is where folks can post requests for assistance and help each […]
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September 4, 2017
September 4, 2017

Watch HubCats Chelsea for Tips and Tricks for Cat Care

Take a second and Watch HubCats Chelsea for Tips and Tricks for Cat Care below! I was lucky enough to host an episode of CCTV’s original programming for HubCats Chelsea and I’ll be doing a few more as time allows, which I’m looking forward to! This particular episode addresses needs and behaviors […]
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September 11, 2017
Hurricane Harvey and our Future
September 11, 2017

Hurricane Harvey and our Future

The last couple of weeks has been incredibly tragic with the onslaught of Hurricane Harvey on  Southern Texas. My thoughts have been with the families and the animals in community and hope that they have overcome the challenges that this storm brought along, with Hurricane Harvey and our Future. Seeing […]
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September 18, 2017
We Care For Animals
September 18, 2017

We Care For Animals, a Small Rescue with Big Results!

Guest Post by Molly H. Mednikow I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Linda Muse, a Board Member of We Care for Animals (W.C.F.A.). We Care for Animals is a small nonprofit organization that works in Mesquite, NV, and surrounding communities. The Mesquite Animal Shelter does not have a feral […]
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October 2, 2017
Operation Paw's Parody Music Video
October 2, 2017

Operation Paw’s Parody Music Video

This week, we have something particularly fun for you! Operation Paw’s Parody Music Video, with parodies Rick Ross’ “Trap Trap Trap” is hot, hot, hot! Catherine Duarte has been a cat lover for many years, but only recently learned about TNR. Since than, she’s been volunteering with Operation Paw, a Miami […]
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October 9, 2017
Time to Think About Winterizing Feral Cat Shelters
October 9, 2017

Time to Think About Winterizing Feral Cat Shelters

For those of us that face cold, hard and long winters, October is the month where it is Time to Think About Winterizing Feral Cat Shelters. We need to go around to our feeding stations and shelters and give them a good cleaning. It’s time to fill them with new […]
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October 16, 2017
Top Online Resources for Volunteer Management
October 16, 2017

Top Online Resources for Volunteer Management

When I sent out a survey asking listeners what their greatest pain points were many of you answered that recruiting and keeping volunteers were big challenges. So I thought I would have Jamie (a CCP staffer and social media guru) do some research on some of the Top Online Resources […]
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October 23, 2017
What To Do When a Cat Knocks on Your Door
October 23, 2017

What To Do When a Cat Knocks on Your Door

What To Do When a Cat Knocks on Your Door and comes into your back yard? Many folks still don’t know what to do. Unfortunately, the steps for helping community cats aren’t the same in all parts of the country, either! We ultimately want what is best for the cat. […]
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October 30, 2017
Trick or Treat... Tips for Your Cats on Halloween
October 30, 2017

Trick or Treat… Tips for Your Cats on Halloween

Tomorrow night is Halloween and many towns have trick or treating. It is a time for everyone to get dressed up (as their favorite cat) and enjoy going door to door getting lots of treats (I don’t think we do many tricks anymore). So today let’s discuss fun Trick or Treat… […]
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November 6, 2017
Feline Nutrition 101
November 6, 2017

Feline Nutrition 101 – A Simple Guide to Eating Well

Feline Nutrition 101. It’s more straightforward than the marketing would like for you to believe! To understand your cat’s nutritional needs, there are just a couple of basics you need to wrap your head around. 1. Cats are Obligate Carnivores This means that their diets should consist almost entirely of […]
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November 13, 2017
Why November Should Be National Spay/Neuter Month and the 10-1 Rule
November 13, 2017

Why November Should Be National Spay/Neuter Month and the 10-1 Rule

If I could have it all, I would make November a month where anyone could get their cat spayed or neutered for free during this month. So Why November Should Be National Spay/Neuter Month and the 10-1 Rule? This is a time of the year where many communities are wrapping […]
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November 20, 2017
Sorry, This Clinic is for Cats Only
November 20, 2017

Sorry, This Clinic is for Cats Only

I continue to be amazed at how our sheltering community believes that programs that serve dogs can also serve cats equally well. Today, I would like to advocate around the notion that we need many, many more low cost wellness clinics for cats only. To be able to say, without […]
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November 27, 2017
A Step-By-Step Guide To Moving With Kids And Pets
November 27, 2017

A Step-By-Step Guide To Moving With Kids And Pets

Moving into a new home can be one of the most stressful scenarios of your life. You’re not just moving all your belongings, you’re changing your complete life. It’s no wonder that some people believe moving into a new home is more taxing than getting a divorce. As stressful as […]
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December 4, 2017
Kids, Cats and Books
December 4, 2017

Kids, Cats and Books

We welcome our new guest blogger, Liz Pease, who is the former Executive Director of Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society! We hope you love her take on Kids, Cats and Books as much as we do! Cats have always been a popular subject for children’s books, stories, and nursery rhymes. […]
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December 10, 2017
Best Holiday Gifts for Cats
December 10, 2017

Best Holiday Gifts for Cats

There are so many great ways to spoil your cat this holiday! Designer pet products are everywhere, with more things available for cats than ever before. Many offer function that your cat can’t resist and style that you will love. Check out these fab finds to pamper your kitty this […]
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December 18, 2017
Fundraising with Community Cats Podcast
December 18, 2017

Top Tips: Fundraising and Donor Engagement

In future blog posts, we are going to feature some “top tips” on an array of different types of topics we hope are of interest to you. If  there is a topic you’d like to see featured, please let us know and we’ll find the right “expert” to share their […]
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December 25, 2017
A Community Cat's Christmas
December 25, 2017

A Community Cat’s Christmas

I’ve heard a song that says “Christmas comes this time each year”—but for me, it comes every day. You see, I’m a community cat, you can call me C.C. When my caretakers stop by with food and fresh water, every day feels like Christmas (or whatever the best day you […]
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January 1, 2018
The Increase in Community Cat Learning Opportunities
January 1, 2018

The Increase in Community Cat Learning Opportunities

With the rising popularity of cats as our companion animals — combined with the feline dominance of the Internet — a whole new array of opportunities have arisen! It is bringing together cat fans and celebrates the general awesomeness of our feline friends with The Increase in Community Cat Learning […]
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January 8, 2018
It Could Finally Be a Turning Point for Cats
January 8, 2018

It Could Finally Be a Turning Point for Cats

The past two years may prove that It Could Finally Be a Turning Point for Cats and their welfare!  Why?  Because at the start of 2016 a veterinary task force was formed with the goal of improving cat welfare. By the middle of 2017, all major national veterinary organizations had endorsed […]
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January 15, 2018
8 Easy Social Media Tips for 2018
January 15, 2018

8 Easy Social Media Tips for 2018

We are so excited to welcome Dina Zawaski, Director of Digital Strategy, MSPCA-Angell this week, to give us some advice on 8 Easy Social Media Tips for 2018! This advice assumes you are a lone wolf – you’re running the digital show for your group or organization all by yourself, and […]
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January 22, 2018
Favorite Kitty Lover Resources
January 22, 2018

Favorite Kitty Lover Resources

If you had uttered the words “feline behaviorist” as little as 20 years ago, people would have looked at you oddly. Cats do what they do…because, well, they’re cats. Fast forward to today. We’re living in a golden age of feline behavior advice and guidance with many Favorite Kitty Lover Resources. […]
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January 29, 2018
Top Tips for Building Your Foster Network
January 29, 2018

Top Tips for Building Your Foster Network

Building a sustainable fostering program can be one of the most powerful ways for organizations to be able to help more cats. I interviewed Bryn Rogers, Assistant Director of Adoption Center Programs and Katie Armour, Project Coordinator, of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA). We […]
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February 5, 2018
Have A Missing Cat? Do These Things First!
February 5, 2018

Have A Missing Cat? Do These Things First!

It’s every cat parent’s worst fear. You put out Shadow’s breakfast,just like you do every morning, but there’s no sign of Shadow. Whether your catis strictly indoor only, or goes outside on a regular basis, it’s incredibly upsetting to have your cat disappear. Don’t just sit back and wait for […]
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February 12, 2018
Wisdom from a “Master Trapper" - Part 1
February 12, 2018

Wisdom from a “Master Trapper” – Part 1

Trapping: It’s the core skill that anyone who wants to help community cats needs to learn. The more skilled a trapper you are, the more cats you can impact. But trapping cats is an art and a science, so in Wisdom from a “Master Trapper” – Part 1, we asked […]
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February 19, 2018
Wisdom from a “Master Trapper" - Part 1
February 19, 2018

Wisdom from a “Master Trapper – Part 2

We’re back with Wisdom from a “Master Trapper – Part 2, with Stephanie Gillis, Cat Care Coordinator at Alley Cat Advocates! Today, Stephanie offers some advice for those who get discouraged when trying to trap, a few of her best “war stories,” and some final advice that will give you […]
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February 26, 2018
Fundraising with Community Cats Podcast
February 26, 2018

Fundraising with Community Cats Podcast

Is there anything more intimidating than fundraising? If you feel that way, you’re not alone. You can have all of the passion in the world, but asking people for money can be scary. That’s the beauty of our Community Cats Grants program: it rewards your organization for experimenting with a new […]
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March 5, 2018
veterinarian
March 5, 2018

The May Spay Challenge

Our guest blogger this week is Brianna Grant, Communications Associate at Alley Cat Rescue in Mt. Rainier, Maryland. Alley Cat Rescue’s May Spay Challenge has become a powerful program to engage local veterinarians in the battle against feline overpopulation. Here’s Brianna’s take: Back in 2010, we were looking for creative […]
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March 11, 2018
March 11, 2018

March Microchipping Madness

March is one of my favorite months, as it is usually the calm before the spring and summer storm of trapping, fostering, and transporting. In March, many communities hold town-sponsored rabies vaccination clinics. These clinics are a good way for the community to come together to care for and celebrate […]
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March 25, 2018
March 25, 2018

Introducing the Community Cat Pyramid

Are you interested in making a significant reduction in the numbers of cats in your community? If the answer is yes, then I think the Community Cat Pyramid will be of interest to you. I hope this graphic will illustrate just how important certain programs are to impacting cat numbers. […]
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April 1, 2018
April 1, 2018

Vaccination and Microchip Clinic Best Practices

This week’s post comes to you from guest blogger Liz Pease. If you’d like to know a little more about Liz and her experience in non-profit management, TNR and cat care, check out episode 51 of the podcast.  One of the best ways to get to know your community—and get […]
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April 8, 2018
April 8, 2018

No-Kill is Now a Metric and No Longer a Movement

For as long as I have been involved with animal welfare (which is going on twenty-four years), there has always been a discussion about the term “no-kill.”  Many organizations have “no-kill” in their mission statements and proudly state that they embody this philosophy — and then there are others who […]
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April 15, 2018
April 15, 2018

Record Keeping: Ughhh! What to Keep and What to Pitch!

Happy Tax Day! I hope everyone made the deadline with filing their personal taxes. Mid April is a time that I dread every year. Many of us need to track our mileage, expenses, and a million health certificates for all of the cats we trapped over the past year. How […]
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April 22, 2018
April 22, 2018

Clear out the Shelters – How to Make it Happen

In late March I saw several posts by large organizations in Massachusetts sharing the fact that they didn’t have any dogs  available for adoption (T.J. O’Connor Animal Control) and only three cats (MSPCA Boston). This is so incredibly amazing … I really didn’t think we would see something like this […]
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April 29, 2018
April 29, 2018

Cat Cycling – How to Make Your Spay/Neuter Programs Most Impactful and not Overwhelm Your Staff

I am a person who likes to do things efficiently, with the biggest possible bang for the buck! One thing that I am not sure we think about enough is how to strategically operate spay/neuter programs within an adoption agency. With these programs, it is often all about just getting […]
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May 6, 2018
May 6, 2018

Thoughts about Transport and the Future for Cats and Kittens

I want to first go on the record and say that I am not an expert in transporting cats and kittens around the country. I have never participated in an out-of-state transport of cats, and I will admit that I was always pretty adamant about helping the cats and kittens […]
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May 13, 2018
May 13, 2018

Our Technical Cat’s Day at Cat Camp 2018

This week’s post comes to you from guest blogger Kristen Petrie. If you’d like to know a little more about what Kristen does at the podcast, check out episode 198 of the podcast.  This past Sunday, at the crack of dawn, I left New Hampshire and headed for New York […]
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June 9, 2016
June 9, 2016

Welcome to our community!

Welcome to the Community Cats Podcast website. I am thrilled to be launching this website where we, as a community, can help more community cats. What is a community cat you ask?  Community Cats are cats that are either feral (born in the wild-outdoors), abandoned cats, or owned indoor/outdoor cats […]
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June 20, 2016
June 20, 2016

The Phases of Feline Over-Population

Huge thanks to Lisa Finkel and Liz Pease from the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society in working tirelessly to help create this wonderful Phases of Feline Over-Population model with our fearless leader, Stacy LeBaron! Stacy LeBaron has been active in the animal welfare field since 1994. She envisions a no-kill nation, where all […]
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July 11, 2016
To-Relocate-or-Not-To-Relocate-That-is-the-Question
July 11, 2016

To Relocate or Not To Relocate – That is the Question

Summertime is when our trappers are their most active. We are so busy handling calls about kittens in distress, feral mothers and cat fights.  It is, by far, when cats are their most visible in the community. It seems like everyone wants community cats gone in July and August! Trust me, […]
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July 18, 2016
Fee-Waived-Adoptions-Help-Organization
July 18, 2016

Fee-Waived Adoptions Can Help Your Organization

This is the time of year when fee-waived adoption events are happening all of the time. Fee-Waived Adoptions Can Help Your Organization! Whether it be within specific organizations or in the community, as a whole, it has been seen to help reduce the overpopulation of cats and kittens in adoption […]
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August 15, 2016
Ten-tips-for-statewide-success-in-identifying-spay/neuter-black-holes
August 15, 2016

Ten tips for statewide success in identifying spay/neuter black holes

Before I get started with this week’s blog, I want to thank everyone who has supported the Community Cats Podcast and has put up a review on iTunes! I just want to send a shout out to: GPCatCrew, Anuki21, kitkat76, HL Cat Lover, julieinmd3, HubCats105 and the UrbanCatCoalition for the […]
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August 22, 2016
Abandonment-Uptick
August 22, 2016

Abandonment Uptick – 5 Tips to Manage the Intake Flow

As the end of summer approaches, we begin to have a larger inflow of surrenders to our shelters. Why does this happen? Yes, we have the addition of kittens coming into our shelters, but in areas where the kitten population is somewhat under control most kitten surrenders can primarily be […]
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August 29, 2016
How-to-Find-an-Organization-to-Volunteer With
August 29, 2016

How to Find an Organization to Volunteer With

Have you been thinking about ways that you can get involved in the community around you? Are you confused where to start, but would really like to start volunteering somewhere that will make a difference? If this sounds like you, it is easier than you think when it comes to How […]
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September 5, 2016
Prepare-for-Winter-and-Prep-Community-Cat-Shelters
September 5, 2016

Prepare for Winter and Prep Community Cat Shelters

With Fall right around the corner it is time to start thinking now about winterizing and cleaning out your feeding stations and feral cat housing. I can’t tell you how many times our committee members have run around at the end of October/early November getting our shelters and feeding stations […]
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September 12, 2016
September 12, 2016

What Does a Humane Community Look Like for Cats

From backyards to large cities, we live in a world with many communities. My family is a community, my friends are a community, my neighborhood, my town…. okay you get it! So, What Does a Humane Community Look Like for Cats? We are currently so focused on shelter statistics that I […]
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September 19, 2016
What-Is-A-Managed-Colony
September 19, 2016

What Is A Managed Colony

What is a managed colony? Why is it important to manage colonies? It is just a quick fix! Over the last five or so years our language has changed about Community Cats. We now call them “Community Cats” instead of feral cats, free-roaming cats and stray cats. Why the change […]
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October 3, 2016
My-Love-Hate-Relationship-with-Social-Media
October 3, 2016

My Love/Hate Relationship with Social Media

On September 23, I had the opportunity to attend the Agents of Change (#AOC2016) conference in Portand, Maine. This was an all day “love in” for all things social media. For me, this was a great opportunity to learn from the experts about some of the best practices in the […]
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October 10, 2016
community-cats-education
October 10, 2016

What about Kids? Ideas and Tips for Community Cat Education

I must admit that I have been remiss over the years when it came to neglecting the importance of Community Cats Education. What about Kids? Ideas and Tips for Community Cat Education is such an important hurdle. We need the next generation to get excited about Community Cats! Over the […]
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October 17, 2016
happy-national-feral-cat-day
October 17, 2016

Happy National Feral Cat Day

Happy National Feral Cat Day!   On this day I want us to take a moment to focus on what National Feral Cat Day means to us. I specifically want to focus on the word “Feral”. We’ve gotten a bit away from identifying our free-roaming cat populations and just putting all cats […]
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October 24, 2016
What-to-do-When-Tragedy-Strikes
October 24, 2016

What to do When Tragedy Strikes

The past couple of weeks has been very tough on the little community that I live in, in Vermont. Some of you may have heard about the terrible accident that happened over Columbus Day weekend, killing five teenagers. While I didn’t know the kids personally, my son is a seventh […]
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October 31, 2016
tips-and-tricks-for-community-cats-at-halloween
October 31, 2016

Tips and Tricks for Community Cats at Halloween

With today being Halloween, I thought I would mention a few Tips and Tricks for Community Cats at Halloween. These will ensure that you, your community cats and house cats stay safe during this favorite holiday for kids! For the Community Cats:  If you feed cats at night between 5-8pm, you […]
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November 14, 2016
Raising Money for Community Cats
November 14, 2016

Raising Money for Community Cats

Raising Money for Community Cats. It’s not a lot different than what happened the day the furnace died! I will never forget this day! It was early November about 5 years ago. I was at the Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society adoption center in Salisbury, going about my usual day. […]
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November 28, 2016
Transport or Not To Transport
November 28, 2016

Transport or Not To Transport

Happy Cyber Monday! I hope everyone had a safe and happy Thanksgiving Holiday and was able to enjoy their family and loved ones. If you are doing your online shopping this fine Monday morning, feel free to take a quick look at our Community Cats Podcast Store. All proceeds go […]
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December 5, 2016
Playing in the Sandbox! 10 Reasons For Coalitions and How To Do It
December 5, 2016

Playing in the Sandbox! 10 Reasons For Coalitions and How To Do It

As many of you know, sandboxes are places that cats often use as litter boxes and many caregivers need to negotiate possible ways to keep cats out of sandboxes in communities. It’s time for Playing in the Sandbox! 10 Reasons For Coalitions and How To Do It is what I […]
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December 12, 2016
How to Retire an Old Feral Cat
December 12, 2016

How to Retire an Old Feral Cat

Well, the snow is finally here in Vermont and everything is looking very festive! This week, we’re going to discuss How to Retire an Old Feral Cat. But between Christmas and New Year’s we will be replaying our greatest hits from the 2016 season. You will be hearing from Hannah […]
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December 19, 2016
Happy Holidays from the Community Cats Podcast
December 19, 2016

Happy Holidays from the Community Cats Podcast

Happy Holidays from the Community Cats Podcast! In this week’s blog, I wanted to talk about the Greatest Hits line up, Being Thankful and Thoughts about Cats in Aleppo. I can’t believe we are already at the end of December. It seems like just last June when we were launching our […]
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December 26, 2016
December 26, 2016

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year from the Community Cats Podcast

With 2016 coming to a close… …it’s the time of year that we reflect on what we’ve accomplished both as organizations and as individuals. Our listeners have been very busy in 2016! Check out our video containing the pictures they’ve submitted to showcase their community cat and animal welfare efforts […]
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January 23, 2017
My 13 Favorite (Mostly Free) Online Tools
January 23, 2017

My 13 Favorite (Mostly Free) Online Tools

This week I would like to cover My 13 Favorite (Mostly Free) Online Tools that I use to help manage people, time, and programs. For those of you who know more personally you know this is a favorite topic of mine. I think that technology is the best thing that […]
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January 30, 2017
10 Fearless Fundraising Events For Those Starting Out
January 30, 2017

10 Fearless Fundraising Events For Those Starting Out

If you are new to running a non-profit, part of a small group, or just joining a group, thinking about fundraising can be overwhelming! I began my fundraising journey back in 7th grade, when I became treasurer of my class. We had to raise money to help pay for a […]
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February 6, 2017
How to Track Those Pesky Grants
February 6, 2017

How to Track Those Pesky Grants

Managing grant applications can be a nightmare if it isn’t done right! The foundations you potentially work with are prospects that can mean bringing in real dollars to your organization. But it is an incredible challenge to track your potential funders, those organizations that you have applied too and then […]
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February 13, 2017
Why Adopting Two Kitties Is Better Than One
February 13, 2017

Make It A Double! Why Adopting Two Kitties Is Better Than One

Happy day before Valentine’s Day! I hope you and your loved ones have a good day filled with Chocolate and Catnip. When we think about Valentine’s Day we think about couples. Today I would like to list some of the many reason why adopting two cats or kittens are better […]
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February 20, 2017
Love your Pet Day
February 20, 2017

Love your Pet Day – Can We Adopt Our Way Out of Pet Overpopulation?

Over the last couple of weeks, Merritt Clifton’s online publication has had several guest posts about why spay/neuter is the solution to our pet overpopulation problems around the world! Yes, folks, we are going to start addressing this issue on a worldwide scale. What perfect timing, as today is Love your […]
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March 6, 2017
March is Microchipping Madness Month
March 6, 2017

March is Microchipping Madness Month

Can you believe we have already hit the month of March? It seems crazy how quickly the year is going by, but we’re excited because March is Microchipping Madness Month! How do you feel about microchipping your cat? It’s definitely not as prevalent as microchipping in our canine counterparts, but […]
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March 13, 2017
The Nuts and Bolts of a Donation Jar Campaign
March 13, 2017

The Nuts and Bolts of a Donation Jar Campaign

The Nuts and Bolts of a Donation Jar Campaign is something many of our groups in The Community Cats Grants ponder during their fundraising efforts. We currently have 40 groups from 18 different states working hard to raise money for their spay/neuter programs that help community cats! More info to […]
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March 20, 2017
TNRM, A New Acronym for Stray Cats
March 20, 2017

TNRM, A New Acronym for Stray Cats

I have long been a great fan of return to field programs. Without even knowing what return to field was, MRFRS was running free spay/neuter clinics for feral cats. Anyone could bring a cat in a trap to our monthly clinics and get them spay/neutered, vaccinated and ear tipped for […]
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March 27, 2017
March 27, 2017

We went to Cat Camp NYC

If you passed by the Metropolitan Pavillion in New York City a couple of weekends ago, you probably noticed more than a few people wearing cat ears and excitedly waiting to get out of the chilly weather and into Cat Camp NYC. That’s right… We went to Cat Camp NYC! The […]
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April 3, 2017
How Shelters and Rescues Can Work Better Together For Cats
April 3, 2017

How Shelters and Rescues Can Work Better Together For Cats

There are many ways on How Shelters and Rescues Can Work Better Together For Cats. Over the last 20 years, thousands of small cat rescue organizations have started all across the country. Many of these groups focus on foster, adoption, and trap, neuter and return. In the early days, many […]
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April 10, 2017
Preparing for Kitten Season and Trapping
April 10, 2017

Preparing for Kitten Season and Trapping

Unfortunately kitten season either is upon us or will soon be here. I thought I would pass along some tips you can use for Preparing for Kitten Season and Trapping. I want you to have a successful year! For the Foster Home Coordinator 1. Check-In If you are a foster […]
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April 17, 2017
Community Cats Grants Equals More Money to Spay it Forward
April 17, 2017

Community Cats Grants Equals More Money to Spay it Forward

The First Community Cats Grants group is just about to finish up their fundraisers and raise thousands of dollars to help fund spay/neuter for cats in their communities! I just love how Community Cats Grants Equals More Money to Spay it Forward! I wanted to share a listing of who participated […]
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April 24, 2017
How to Handle Volatile Volunteers and Negative Nellies
April 24, 2017

How to Handle Volatile Volunteers and Negative Nellies

Volunteerism is what drives our profession in animal welfare. We wouldn’t be able to do 90% of our work without volunteer help! Most of our boards of directors are run by volunteers, along with our cat caretakers and trappers being volunteers, too. Our foster homes are volunteers and fundraisers and […]
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May 1, 2017
No-Kill Shelters Versus No-Kill Communities
May 1, 2017

No-Kill Shelters Versus No-Kill Communities

It seems like this month has been filled will lots of conversations about the word “No-Kill” and what it means. How will all of the data that we are collecting to create a country full of No-Kill shelters impact the overall wellness of our communities for Community Cats? So, when […]
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May 8, 2017
Backyard Cat Fence
May 8, 2017

Cat Adopters Need to Install a Backyard Cat Fence and Here’s Why

Join us for a guest blog post this week from Jennifer Smith of EasyPetFence! She provides her thoughts on why providing a Backyard Cat Fence is a good option for all of your cats. Cat Adopters Need to Install a Backyard Cat Fence and Here’s Why! When I talk to cat […]
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May 15, 2017
Feline Fix by Five and Why This Would Make a Huge Difference
May 15, 2017

Feline Fix by Five and Why This Would Make a Huge Difference

This week I want to discuss the Feline Fix by Five and Why This Would Make a Huge Difference! The program, created by Marion’s Dream and inspired by Esther Mechler, has always seemed like such an easy thing to do. All it asks is that we get our cats spayed or […]
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May 22, 2017
Feline Leukemia Positive Cats and Why to Adopt Them Out
May 22, 2017

Feline Leukemia Positive Cats and Why to Adopt Them Out

Before we talk about Feline Leukemia Positive Cats and Why to Adopt Them Out, I want to give a big thank you to everyone who participated in the Annual Survey! I had some fantastic responses and it is clear that you all enjoy the podcast. We’ve also got some great […]
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June 19, 2017
It’s all about Spay/Neuter Baby
June 19, 2017

It’s all about Spay/Neuter Baby

Today I am jumping back up on my spay/neuter soapbox and share with you some great statistics that I have. It’s all about Spay/Neuter Baby! The stats prove that high volume and accessible spay/neuter is what will truly make a difference in lives saved in your community. In 2008 a […]
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June 26, 2017
How To Understand The Body Language Of Your Cat
June 26, 2017

How To Understand The Body Language Of Your Cat

Are you anxious to know what your cat wants to tell you? If it talks to you, would you be able to understand it? Learn How To Understand The Body Language Of Your Cat! Of course, you won’t know everything. But, you can definitely know about its mood from its body […]
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July 3, 2017
5 Tips for Keeping Sane During the Summer with Kittens Everywhere
July 3, 2017

5 Tips for Keeping Sane During the Summer with Kittens Everywhere

Hey everyone, Happy Summer! When I would hear those words I would just dread what I knew was going to come my way, lots and lots of requests for help with kittens and foster care. So these 5 Tips for Keeping Sane During the Summer with Kittens Everywhere will help! It […]
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July 17, 2017
How to Introduce Cats to New Environments
July 17, 2017

How to Introduce Cats to New Environments

Introducing your new cat to your home can be very stressful not only on you, but also the cat. So How to Introduce Cats to New Environments? Stress levels can become more elevated if there are other animals or small kids involved. Introducing your new feline friend to your home […]
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July 24, 2017
Applying Broken Window Theory to Prevent Hoarding Situations
July 24, 2017

Applying Broken Window Theory to Prevent Hoarding Situations

I know that many of my recent blog posts have focused on the fact that we are overwhelmed with kittens. We also have so many requests for assistance, along with many more things going on. Today I am going to continue on that trend by discussing Applying Broken Window Theory […]
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August 21, 2017
When Volunteers Leave at the End of the Summer
August 21, 2017

The Summer Time Blues – When Volunteers Leave at the End of the Summer

The end of August is always bitter sweet in the shelters. We are full to the brim with lots and lots of cats and kittens. Our foster homes are tired, trappers are tired and to top it off… our summer volunteers are leaving us to go back to school. It […]
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August 28, 2017
A Call to Action for Creating Statewide Community Cat Networks
August 28, 2017

A Call to Action for Creating Statewide Community Cat Networks

Since 2004 there has been a network of cat trappers and rescuers who have worked together to help curb feline over population in Massachusetts. It is called Masscats and is a simple yahoo group that follows the framework of freecycle. This is where folks can post requests for assistance and help each […]
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September 4, 2017
September 4, 2017

Watch HubCats Chelsea for Tips and Tricks for Cat Care

Take a second and Watch HubCats Chelsea for Tips and Tricks for Cat Care below! I was lucky enough to host an episode of CCTV’s original programming for HubCats Chelsea and I’ll be doing a few more as time allows, which I’m looking forward to! This particular episode addresses needs and behaviors […]
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September 11, 2017
Hurricane Harvey and our Future
September 11, 2017

Hurricane Harvey and our Future

The last couple of weeks has been incredibly tragic with the onslaught of Hurricane Harvey on  Southern Texas. My thoughts have been with the families and the animals in community and hope that they have overcome the challenges that this storm brought along, with Hurricane Harvey and our Future. Seeing […]
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September 18, 2017
We Care For Animals
September 18, 2017

We Care For Animals, a Small Rescue with Big Results!

Guest Post by Molly H. Mednikow I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Linda Muse, a Board Member of We Care for Animals (W.C.F.A.). We Care for Animals is a small nonprofit organization that works in Mesquite, NV, and surrounding communities. The Mesquite Animal Shelter does not have a feral […]
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October 2, 2017
Operation Paw's Parody Music Video
October 2, 2017

Operation Paw’s Parody Music Video

This week, we have something particularly fun for you! Operation Paw’s Parody Music Video, with parodies Rick Ross’ “Trap Trap Trap” is hot, hot, hot! Catherine Duarte has been a cat lover for many years, but only recently learned about TNR. Since than, she’s been volunteering with Operation Paw, a Miami […]
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October 9, 2017
Time to Think About Winterizing Feral Cat Shelters
October 9, 2017

Time to Think About Winterizing Feral Cat Shelters

For those of us that face cold, hard and long winters, October is the month where it is Time to Think About Winterizing Feral Cat Shelters. We need to go around to our feeding stations and shelters and give them a good cleaning. It’s time to fill them with new […]
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October 16, 2017
Top Online Resources for Volunteer Management
October 16, 2017

Top Online Resources for Volunteer Management

When I sent out a survey asking listeners what their greatest pain points were many of you answered that recruiting and keeping volunteers were big challenges. So I thought I would have Jamie (a CCP staffer and social media guru) do some research on some of the Top Online Resources […]
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October 23, 2017
What To Do When a Cat Knocks on Your Door
October 23, 2017

What To Do When a Cat Knocks on Your Door

What To Do When a Cat Knocks on Your Door and comes into your back yard? Many folks still don’t know what to do. Unfortunately, the steps for helping community cats aren’t the same in all parts of the country, either! We ultimately want what is best for the cat. […]
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October 30, 2017
Trick or Treat... Tips for Your Cats on Halloween
October 30, 2017

Trick or Treat… Tips for Your Cats on Halloween

Tomorrow night is Halloween and many towns have trick or treating. It is a time for everyone to get dressed up (as their favorite cat) and enjoy going door to door getting lots of treats (I don’t think we do many tricks anymore). So today let’s discuss fun Trick or Treat… […]
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November 6, 2017
Feline Nutrition 101
November 6, 2017

Feline Nutrition 101 – A Simple Guide to Eating Well

Feline Nutrition 101. It’s more straightforward than the marketing would like for you to believe! To understand your cat’s nutritional needs, there are just a couple of basics you need to wrap your head around. 1. Cats are Obligate Carnivores This means that their diets should consist almost entirely of […]
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November 13, 2017
Why November Should Be National Spay/Neuter Month and the 10-1 Rule
November 13, 2017

Why November Should Be National Spay/Neuter Month and the 10-1 Rule

If I could have it all, I would make November a month where anyone could get their cat spayed or neutered for free during this month. So Why November Should Be National Spay/Neuter Month and the 10-1 Rule? This is a time of the year where many communities are wrapping […]
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November 20, 2017
Sorry, This Clinic is for Cats Only
November 20, 2017

Sorry, This Clinic is for Cats Only

I continue to be amazed at how our sheltering community believes that programs that serve dogs can also serve cats equally well. Today, I would like to advocate around the notion that we need many, many more low cost wellness clinics for cats only. To be able to say, without […]
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November 27, 2017
A Step-By-Step Guide To Moving With Kids And Pets
November 27, 2017

A Step-By-Step Guide To Moving With Kids And Pets

Moving into a new home can be one of the most stressful scenarios of your life. You’re not just moving all your belongings, you’re changing your complete life. It’s no wonder that some people believe moving into a new home is more taxing than getting a divorce. As stressful as […]
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December 4, 2017
Kids, Cats and Books
December 4, 2017

Kids, Cats and Books

We welcome our new guest blogger, Liz Pease, who is the former Executive Director of Merrimack River Feline Rescue Society! We hope you love her take on Kids, Cats and Books as much as we do! Cats have always been a popular subject for children’s books, stories, and nursery rhymes. […]
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December 10, 2017
Best Holiday Gifts for Cats
December 10, 2017

Best Holiday Gifts for Cats

There are so many great ways to spoil your cat this holiday! Designer pet products are everywhere, with more things available for cats than ever before. Many offer function that your cat can’t resist and style that you will love. Check out these fab finds to pamper your kitty this […]
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December 18, 2017
Fundraising with Community Cats Podcast
December 18, 2017

Top Tips: Fundraising and Donor Engagement

In future blog posts, we are going to feature some “top tips” on an array of different types of topics we hope are of interest to you. If  there is a topic you’d like to see featured, please let us know and we’ll find the right “expert” to share their […]
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December 25, 2017
A Community Cat's Christmas
December 25, 2017

A Community Cat’s Christmas

I’ve heard a song that says “Christmas comes this time each year”—but for me, it comes every day. You see, I’m a community cat, you can call me C.C. When my caretakers stop by with food and fresh water, every day feels like Christmas (or whatever the best day you […]
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January 1, 2018
The Increase in Community Cat Learning Opportunities
January 1, 2018

The Increase in Community Cat Learning Opportunities

With the rising popularity of cats as our companion animals — combined with the feline dominance of the Internet — a whole new array of opportunities have arisen! It is bringing together cat fans and celebrates the general awesomeness of our feline friends with The Increase in Community Cat Learning […]
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January 8, 2018
It Could Finally Be a Turning Point for Cats
January 8, 2018

It Could Finally Be a Turning Point for Cats

The past two years may prove that It Could Finally Be a Turning Point for Cats and their welfare!  Why?  Because at the start of 2016 a veterinary task force was formed with the goal of improving cat welfare. By the middle of 2017, all major national veterinary organizations had endorsed […]
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January 15, 2018
8 Easy Social Media Tips for 2018
January 15, 2018

8 Easy Social Media Tips for 2018

We are so excited to welcome Dina Zawaski, Director of Digital Strategy, MSPCA-Angell this week, to give us some advice on 8 Easy Social Media Tips for 2018! This advice assumes you are a lone wolf – you’re running the digital show for your group or organization all by yourself, and […]
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January 22, 2018
Favorite Kitty Lover Resources
January 22, 2018

Favorite Kitty Lover Resources

If you had uttered the words “feline behaviorist” as little as 20 years ago, people would have looked at you oddly. Cats do what they do…because, well, they’re cats. Fast forward to today. We’re living in a golden age of feline behavior advice and guidance with many Favorite Kitty Lover Resources. […]
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January 29, 2018
Top Tips for Building Your Foster Network
January 29, 2018

Top Tips for Building Your Foster Network

Building a sustainable fostering program can be one of the most powerful ways for organizations to be able to help more cats. I interviewed Bryn Rogers, Assistant Director of Adoption Center Programs and Katie Armour, Project Coordinator, of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA). We […]
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February 5, 2018
Have A Missing Cat? Do These Things First!
February 5, 2018

Have A Missing Cat? Do These Things First!

It’s every cat parent’s worst fear. You put out Shadow’s breakfast,just like you do every morning, but there’s no sign of Shadow. Whether your catis strictly indoor only, or goes outside on a regular basis, it’s incredibly upsetting to have your cat disappear. Don’t just sit back and wait for […]
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February 12, 2018
Wisdom from a “Master Trapper" - Part 1
February 12, 2018

Wisdom from a “Master Trapper” – Part 1

Trapping: It’s the core skill that anyone who wants to help community cats needs to learn. The more skilled a trapper you are, the more cats you can impact. But trapping cats is an art and a science, so in Wisdom from a “Master Trapper” – Part 1, we asked […]
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February 19, 2018
Wisdom from a “Master Trapper" - Part 1
February 19, 2018

Wisdom from a “Master Trapper – Part 2

We’re back with Wisdom from a “Master Trapper – Part 2, with Stephanie Gillis, Cat Care Coordinator at Alley Cat Advocates! Today, Stephanie offers some advice for those who get discouraged when trying to trap, a few of her best “war stories,” and some final advice that will give you […]
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February 26, 2018
Fundraising with Community Cats Podcast
February 26, 2018

Fundraising with Community Cats Podcast

Is there anything more intimidating than fundraising? If you feel that way, you’re not alone. You can have all of the passion in the world, but asking people for money can be scary. That’s the beauty of our Community Cats Grants program: it rewards your organization for experimenting with a new […]
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March 5, 2018
veterinarian
March 5, 2018

The May Spay Challenge

Our guest blogger this week is Brianna Grant, Communications Associate at Alley Cat Rescue in Mt. Rainier, Maryland. Alley Cat Rescue’s May Spay Challenge has become a powerful program to engage local veterinarians in the battle against feline overpopulation. Here’s Brianna’s take: Back in 2010, we were looking for creative […]
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March 11, 2018
March 11, 2018

March Microchipping Madness

March is one of my favorite months, as it is usually the calm before the spring and summer storm of trapping, fostering, and transporting. In March, many communities hold town-sponsored rabies vaccination clinics. These clinics are a good way for the community to come together to care for and celebrate […]
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March 25, 2018
March 25, 2018

Introducing the Community Cat Pyramid

Are you interested in making a significant reduction in the numbers of cats in your community? If the answer is yes, then I think the Community Cat Pyramid will be of interest to you. I hope this graphic will illustrate just how important certain programs are to impacting cat numbers. […]
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April 1, 2018
April 1, 2018

Vaccination and Microchip Clinic Best Practices

This week’s post comes to you from guest blogger Liz Pease. If you’d like to know a little more about Liz and her experience in non-profit management, TNR and cat care, check out episode 51 of the podcast.  One of the best ways to get to know your community—and get […]
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April 8, 2018
April 8, 2018

No-Kill is Now a Metric and No Longer a Movement

For as long as I have been involved with animal welfare (which is going on twenty-four years), there has always been a discussion about the term “no-kill.”  Many organizations have “no-kill” in their mission statements and proudly state that they embody this philosophy — and then there are others who […]
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April 15, 2018
April 15, 2018

Record Keeping: Ughhh! What to Keep and What to Pitch!

Happy Tax Day! I hope everyone made the deadline with filing their personal taxes. Mid April is a time that I dread every year. Many of us need to track our mileage, expenses, and a million health certificates for all of the cats we trapped over the past year. How […]
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April 22, 2018
April 22, 2018

Clear out the Shelters – How to Make it Happen

In late March I saw several posts by large organizations in Massachusetts sharing the fact that they didn’t have any dogs  available for adoption (T.J. O’Connor Animal Control) and only three cats (MSPCA Boston). This is so incredibly amazing … I really didn’t think we would see something like this […]
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April 29, 2018
April 29, 2018

Cat Cycling – How to Make Your Spay/Neuter Programs Most Impactful and not Overwhelm Your Staff

I am a person who likes to do things efficiently, with the biggest possible bang for the buck! One thing that I am not sure we think about enough is how to strategically operate spay/neuter programs within an adoption agency. With these programs, it is often all about just getting […]
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May 6, 2018
May 6, 2018

Thoughts about Transport and the Future for Cats and Kittens

I want to first go on the record and say that I am not an expert in transporting cats and kittens around the country. I have never participated in an out-of-state transport of cats, and I will admit that I was always pretty adamant about helping the cats and kittens […]
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May 13, 2018
May 13, 2018

Our Technical Cat’s Day at Cat Camp 2018

This week’s post comes to you from guest blogger Kristen Petrie. If you’d like to know a little more about what Kristen does at the podcast, check out episode 198 of the podcast.  This past Sunday, at the crack of dawn, I left New Hampshire and headed for New York […]
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