Broward County Animal Care is urging residents to step in and help as the agency struggles with an overcrowding crisis brought on by kitten season and multiple recent hoarding cases. Officials say the shelter’s cat population has reached “beyond critical levels,” limiting its ability to take in more animals.
To ease the pressure, the agency is promoting the adoption of semi-social “working cats” — felines that aren’t suited to traditional homes but thrive in open spaces such as barns, warehouses, stables, and nurseries. These cats provide natural pest control while still requiring food, water, and safe shelter.
“These cats are survivors, but they cannot succeed without community support,” said Doug Brightwell, Director of Broward County Animal Care. “By opening your space to a working cat, you are saving lives and helping us protect all the animals in our care.”
All cats adopted through the program are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before leaving the shelter. In many cases, adoption fees are waived, and starter supplies are provided.
“With just a little help from the community, these cats can live healthy, purposeful lives, and our shelter can continue caring for all animals who need us,” Brightwell added.
How residents can help
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Adopt a Working Cat: Provide safe space and care while benefiting from their natural pest control.
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Spread the Word: Share adoption information with neighbors, friends, and local businesses.
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Explore Online: View available cats at PetAdoptions.Broward.org.
More details are available at Broward.org/Animal.
