The kitten sanctuary is facing a pet food and cost crisis

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RISING costs have put a huge strain on an animal charity struggling to pay for essentials for their animals.

The Kitten Cottage Animal Sanctuary in Virginia is facing the “worst pet food crisis in years” due to the increasing number of cats and kittens being surrendered or abandoned and the rising costs of pet food.

The small non-profit organization receives an annual grant of €12,900 from the State, however, owner Máire Egan says it costs more than €24,000 a year to run the shelter: “ We are doing everything we can but it is getting harder and harder. Manage.”

“Before Covid it cost €25 to neuter a kitten, now it’s €65. Food has gone up by around 40 per cent and then there are other costs like cleaning the equipment on top this.

“Fuel is something that people don’t even think about when it comes to the work of animal charities. I spend so many days traveling to and from vet clinics and the sanctuary.”

Learning of the difficulties animal charities currently face with costs, Slane woman Sonia Fitzpatrick created a GoFundMe page for the sanctuary, encouraging people to donate and “relieve the suffering of poor defenseless animals.”

“I’ve always loved animals, especially cats and I’m increasingly aware of how animal charities across Ireland are struggling to cope with the costs and numbers of animals in their care,” explained Sonia.

“I want to help in any way I can. I am delighted with how successful the fundraiser was. I would like to thank all the animal lovers who have made donations, it will go a long way to cover the costs of pet food and vet bills.

With a target of €2,250, Sonia raised €2,010 in two weeks.

“I am delighted with how successful the fundraiser was and would like to thank everyone who made donations.”

Máire expressed how grateful she was to Sonia for organizing this fundraiser.

“Fundraisers and donation pages are a big help. I cannot emphasize enough how generous people are.”

Kitten Cottage Animal Sanctuary was established 24 years ago.

“It all started by accident,” says Máire.

“I had never moved from Dublin to Virginia and my two sons found an old and sick cat. It took them six weeks to tame the cat and catch him. Then we took the cat to the vets who told us the cat had to be put down. There was nothing wrong with the cat wherever he ended up. I agreed to take the cat home. Then one became 13 and then 13 became 30. In 24 years, I have saved over 11,600 cats.”

Over the years, Máire also found herself rescuing other animals and wildlife such as birds, foxes, dogs and even an otter.

“Of all the things I’ve done in my life, starting this sanctuary is definitely one of my favorites. It’s my chance to give back.”

You can find out about Kitten Cottage at gofundme.com