Winnipeg Humane Society Faces Surge of 573 Cats in July

URGENT UPDATE: The Winnipeg Humane Society is urgently seeking forever homes for pets after an unprecedented surge of 573 cats and kittens were taken in during July. This staggering increase nearly doubles the feline population in their care from June, prompting immediate action to find loving families for these animals.

Kyra Loewen, the full-time adoption supervisor, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “It’s a pretty staggering number.” The shelter is at the tail end of kitten season, leading to a significant rise in the number of cats needing assistance.

Many of these animals are strays or surrendered by owners unable to provide for their basic needs, including food and veterinary care. Others have been abandoned outside the shelter on Hurst Way, seized from cases of hoarding, or rescued from abuse situations.

Loewen confirmed that while about 250 cats have already been adopted out, hundreds more are still waiting for homes. The organization launched a new promotional campaign on August 1, 2025, reducing adoption fees for both cats and dogs to encourage more adoptions until August 3. “Our organization is working extra hard to provide the care so we can help these animals get adopted out,” Loewen stated.

On the first day of the campaign, the shelter reported 19 adoptions, significantly higher than their usual daily rates. The humane society is committed to ensuring quality care for every animal entering their facility, as they anticipate more cats arriving in August.

Loewen highlighted the critical need for spaying and neutering pets to prevent such overwhelming numbers in the future. “We advocate for people to spay and neuter their pets. It’s essential to decrease the population of stray animals here in Manitoba,” they said.

With the ongoing influx of animals, the Winnipeg Humane Society’s efforts are more crucial than ever. The community’s support through adoptions and responsible pet ownership can make a significant difference in the lives of these vulnerable animals.

For those interested in adopting, the shelter encourages immediate action to help combat this urgent situation. Share this message to spread awareness and help find homes for these deserving pets!