Cat stats: Rescue and Adoption Center recaps 2023

The Community Cat Rescue and Adoption Center of Barron County, located at 23 E. Bracklin St., Rice Lake, an all-volunteer association that rescues and adopts out feral and abandoned cats and kittens, shared its statistics from 2023.

The organization brought in 553 cats and kittens, which volunteers say is far more than the average 300 brought to the center in prior years.

“The escalated number of cats brought in to the cat center in 2023 over 2022 is likely due to increased awareness of the center’ existence resulting in more late-term pregnant cats being dropped off,” said Diane Buxton, the center’s marketing volunteer. “During June we realized a count of 60+ kittens either at the center or in foster homes.”

She said, “It’s easy to see why we need more donations and more volunteers. On top of medical care, there’s the daily expense in caring for a cat/kitten, and the expense of maintaining an old building.”

The center records that the amount of money spent on vet care and medications in 2023 was $54,093.

Buxton added, “This organization is run by volunteers. Not a penny goes to pay employees. Dedicated volunteers have added hours to their work week because of the increase in kitties. To consider volunteering, visit the cat center for more information, or just show up at 8:30 any morning and come in through the east door.”

She shared, “Remodeling to keep the building in good shape is a constant job, and it’s expensive. Needed everyday supplies include: paper towels, Friskies canned pate, Purina dry kitten food, cat litter, 13-gallon drawstring trash bags, laundry detergent, and gallons of bleach. There’s a donation box on the front steps of the center.”

Buxton hopes everyone will do something to help their volunteer efforts continue through 2024 and beyond.

“If someone would just donate a new building,” she said of the nonprofit’s dream.

“A thousand thanks to those who have already volunteered and/or donated,” Buxton said. “If you can’t adopt, you can sponsor a cat for someone who may need the help in adopting one. If you have the ability to make a monetary gift, you can be sure it will be put to good use.”