Tag Archives: shelters

33

Cat Forum: Domestic Violence and Cats

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Editor’s Note: October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the US. We’re taking a break from our usual (hopefully) humorous topics and looking at an issue that has hit our household. If this topic is too painful for you, please take a break this week and come back next Saturday.

Hello! It’s Onyx here. October is Domestic Violence Awareness month. About a year ago, my human, along with Angel, Gypsy, and myself, had to escape a domestic violence situation involving my human’s former husband (I’ll call him loud human). He was really nice when I first moved in, but as time went on, he became loud, mean, controlling, and eventually, abusive, both physically, emotionally, and verbally. He was mean to everyone in the house, including the mini humans, and the cats. So I’m writing today to bring awareness to domestic violence involving pets. 

  • 71% of domestic violence survivors report that their abuser threatened, harmed, or killed a pet. The abusers will do this as a way to control or get revenge on their victims. Animals may also be used as weapons against the victims. 
  • Half of domestic violence victims would rather stay with their abuser than leave their pets. Thankfully, my human was in a situation where she could keep me (and Angel and Gypsy. Loud Human got Thunder, as she was his cat). She was able to move us all in with her mom. But it’s so sad to know that this is a choice that must be made by victims every day. 

  • 52% of survivors are forced to leave their pet with their abuser. Because of this, 25% of victims will return to their abuser; oftentimes, their abuser will use the pet as a means to get their victims back. 
  • 87% of battery perpetrated pet abuse is committed in front of the abuser’s partner; 76% is committed in front of children. 
  • 13% of animal abuse involves domestic abuse. 

  • 85% of domestic violence shelter workers report that they commonly encounter clients who speak about pet abuse; people in shelters are 11 times more likely to report pet abuse than people who are not abused. 
  • Pet abuse investigations are often starting points for social services getting involved in domestic violence situations. 
  • Domestic violence survivors who reported pet abuse also reported twice as many child abuse cases, as compared to survivors who did not report pet abuse. 

  • Animal abusers are more likely to be domestic violence perpetrators; additionally, these abusers are more likely to have been arrested for other violent crimes, have a history of delinquent behaviors, and often have a history of suffering abuse in their childhood. 
  • 55% of domestic violence survivors report that their pets are very important emotional support structures in their lives. 
  • 19.5% of victims without pets will postpone seeking shelter, whereas 33.3% of victims with pets will postpone seeking shelter. 

  • 65% of domestic violence survivors worry about what will happen to their pet upon entering a shelter; because of this, 40% of victims don’t leave their violent situation due to their pet. 
  • Only 12% of domestic violence shelters can take in pets, and only 24% of shelters can provide referrals for local animal welfare houses. Because of this, survivors have lived in their car for up to 4 months, waiting for a spot at a pet friendly shelter to open up. 

That’s a lot to swallow. There are tips on getting your pet ready to leave a domestic violence situation. These tips include: 

  • Know what shelters around you allow pets, or at least have an established safe haven foster care program. Check out this website for statewide information on where you and your pet may be able to go: https://www.safehavensforpets.org/ 
  • If taking your pet is not possible, try to arrange for your pet to stay with your vet, a local shelter, or a friend or family member. Try to avoid leaving your pet alone with your abuser. 

  • Create a safety or escape plan that includes your pet. 
  • If you do have to leave your pet with your abuser, and are able to go back for them, ask a police officer or member of animal control to escort you. Never go alone. 

  • Put vaccines and registrations in your name; if at all possible, leave your abuser’s name off of them. 
  • Prepare your pet for a quick escape; have all of their pertinent documents (including vet records, vaccination records, registrations, and microchip information) in one place.  

  • After you leave your abuser, there are still some steps you can take to protect your pet. These include:
    • Not leaving your pet alone outside. 
    • Changing your vet. 
    • Bring as much food and medicine as possible for your pet when you leave (and favorite blanket or toy, if applicable). 
    • See if you can include your pet on any legal protection orders you may get. 30 states, including my state of Michigan, allow pets to be included. 

Although resources vary from state to state, I found some national organizations (in the US) that may help your human and you in domestic violence situations. These organizations include the ASPCA ((888) 666-2279), The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (800-799 SAFE (3233)), American Humane Association (1-800-227-4645), Purina (972.487.2200), and Safe People Safe Pets (617-999-3055).  

Domestic violence is atrocious for everyone involved. And it’s infinitely more difficult to escape when you have a pet. My paws are crossed that one day, domestic violence will no longer be an issue. However, for now, if you or someone you know is in need of resources, please try to access them as conveniently as possible. Stay safe, and have a safe and happy October (which is also Black Cat Awareness Month!)

35

Why Everyone Should Adopt a Black Cat

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Greetings everyone! It’s Onyx here, this time to specifically talk about black cats and adoption. I was adopted by my human at 6 months old, and she was very saddened to hear that, not only was I severely neglected and abused before being rescued by the shelter, but once I was cleared for adoption and put on display, I sat there for six weeks without a single inquiry. In fact, she was the first (and only) person to show any interest in me- it was so bad, the shelter kept delaying getting me spayed, because other cats were coming in and leaving within a day, and to leave the specific shelter I was at, you had to be spayed or neutered. So I thought I would talk about the struggles of being a black cat waiting for adoption, and what benefits will come if you do choose to adopt black felines. 

Bad Shelter Statistics

Black cats have it rough when it comes to shelter statistics. Not only are black cats given up the most of any color feline, but we are also the hardest to place in homes. Black cats have the lowest adoption rate of any color cat out there. In addition, we make up the highest percentage of kitties in shelters. Unfortunately, in areas that still allow euthanizing for animal control, that also means that black cats are most likely to be put down. The shelter life of a black cat is a sad life. 

Fun, Playful Kitties

Black cats have a tendency to be more energetic and playful. We love playing hide and seek (and are quite good at it!) as much as we love pouncing and chasing. This trait can make black cats a good fit for families with young children who enjoy playing and chasing. 

We Love Everyone

Black cats are also found to be super sweet and loving. We love curling up on your lap or pillow and soaking in companionship. We also love being held or snuggling up for a nap, and most of us show no hesitation in requesting our cuddles. I will reach out and tap my human with my paw to show I need love (that’s how I got her to notice me in the shelter)! I also love giving head bonks and nose rubs, and just showing my affection often. 

Good Luck Charms

Although there are many (horribly untrue) myths that black cats cause bad luck, many cultures are now beginning to flip their ideas to show that black cats actually bring good luck! These fortunate countries include England, Japan, Italy, Ireland, Scotland, Egypt, and Latvia. There are some Asian cultures, China especially, that believe black cats bring prosperity. Unfortunately, America has yet to jump on the good luck bandwagon, but hopefully soon! 

Black Cats Matter

As mentioned above, due to volume, black cats tend to have a higher euthanization rate to begin with. But did you know that some people are so cruel, they’ll actually adopt black cats with the intention of harming or killing them? Some people also adopt black cats as “Halloween decorations” and abandon them after the holiday. For that reason, many shelters won’t even adopt out black cats during the month of October. Unfortunately, evil persists year round, so black cats are still at risk of being placed into a harmful home. By adopting a black cat, you’re saving them from a life of misery and guaranteeing a safe, loving home. 

Intelligence at its Finest

Obviously all cats are smart- we did domesticate humans, after all, and continue to train them. But did you know black cats are often known for their intelligence and wisdom? Many black cats are distantly related to the panther, one of the smartest animals out there. In the wild, we use our intelligence to simultaneously camouflage and hunt prey. At home, we use it to hunt small prey and perfect our humans. Pretty cool, huh?

Black is Beautiful

All cats are beautiful, and black cats are no exception! Not only do we match all outfits and decor, but our black first look regal. The color of our eyes are piercing against the black of our coat, and we can get highlights (typically auburn or brown) from the sun. Black cats make the purrfect accessory or centerpiece to your home! 

Long Live the Black Cat

Looking for a long term relationship? Adopt a black cat! Black cats tend to live longer and are thought to have a stronger immune system than other felines. Scientists believe this is due to our lineage being traceable to one breed, meaning genetic coding hasn’t been compromised and weakened. Black cats are less likely to develop feline leukemia, and tend to bounce back quicker from minor illnesses and injuries. If we’re kept inside and taken well care of, it’s not uncommon for black cats to live between 18-22 years. That’s definitely a worthy relationship. 

The adoption of any cat is a wonderful journey, for both human and kitty. But the next time you’re seeking a new family member, please consider a black cat. We’re wonderful, loving creatures, and we’d love to get to know you and brighten your home. And spread the word to everyone you know- we can save the kitties one adoption at a time! 

With head bonks and nose rubs,

Onyx Katt

Ed. Note: We want to offer our condolences to Ms. Ellen and everyone at 15andMeowing. Beloved Sammy went over the Rainbow Bridge a few days ago. He will be missed.