Program Description
The Spay-it-Forward Program (SPIF) is an initiative launched by The Feline Connection to help prevent the birth of unwanted kittens. The program aims to spay mom cats eight weeks after they give birth to their last litter of kittens. The program offers a convenient and affordable way for cat owners to ensure their cats do not have unwanted kittens while also providing a safe and healthy environment for the kittens. Applicants for this program are approved on a case-by-case basis. The Feline Connection has a limited number of spots available each year.
How the SPIF Program Works
The SPIF Program offered by The Feline Connection involves spaying pregnant mom cats eight weeks after they give birth. If you can accommodate the mom cat and her kittens in your home during this time, that is preferred. However, if that is not possible, The Feline Connection will temporarily foster them and return the mom cat to you if there is no evidence of abuse.
The kittens will be initially surrendered to The Feline Connection but will remain with the mom cat until they reach eight weeks of age. During this time The Feline Connection will give the kittens their first vaccination. At about eight weeks, the kittens will transfer to The Feline Connection who will then spay or neuter, vaccinate, microchip, and find suitable adoptive families for them. The organization conducts thorough research and screening on potential adopters to ensure a good match.
If necessary, The Feline Connection will provide medical care (by our arrangement only) for the kittens and may also provide experienced foster care if the kittens become very ill. However, all medical care for the mom cat remains the responsibility of the caregiver.
If you are interested in participating in the SPIF program, you will be required to read the Foster Manual provided by The Feline Connection and sign a statement confirming that you have read and understood the guidelines outlined in the manual. You will also be required to sign a form surrendering the kittens to The Feline Connection.
Benefits of spaying female cats
- Reduced risk of unwanted litters: Spaying female cats eliminates their ability to reproduce, which helps to prevent unwanted litters of kittens. This can reduce the number of cats that end up in your home or property, in shelters or on the streets.
- Prevention of certain health issues: Spaying female cats can also reduce the risk of certain health issues, such as ovarian and uterine cancer, as well as pyometra (a potentially life-threatening uterine infection).
- Reduced risk of behavioral issues: Female cats that have not been spayed may experience behavioral issues related to their reproductive cycles, such as excessive vocalization, urination outside of the litter box, and aggressive behavior.
- Improved quality of life: Spayed female cats no longer go into heat, which can be stressful and uncomfortable for both the cat and her owner. They also do not have to go through pregnancy and birth, which can be physically demanding.
Overall, spaying female cats is an important step in promoting their health and well-being, as well as helping to control the feline population.
If you are interested in participating in the SPIF program, please contact The Feline Connection through the Contact Us feature or on Facebook. Please note that submitting an email or contacting The Feline Connection does not guarantee acceptance to the program.
