This Little Kitty Went Home

CatFest to find homes and hearts for Denver’s shelter kitties

The internet is for cats. If you haven’t jumped on board, posting hundreds of kitty pictures to your Instagram and Facebook feeds, you are committing social media “faux paw” number one.

But don’t tuck that tail between your legs in shame just yet! CatFest 2014 is ready to hook you up with a meme-able cat (or three) of your very own.

Entering its sixth year, CatFest is an effort by the Dumb Friends League to find fur-ever homes for cats and kittens in a unique and fun way. The July 19 event, held at the Dumb Friends League’s Quebec location, will shower attendees with food, live entertainment, cat training and care demonstrations, children’s activities, and, of course, adoptable cats galore. The feline festival promises a good time for both the cat-converted and cat-curious alike.

“Our goal for CatFest is not only to highlight our cat companions, but also to educate the public on why it’s so important for us as a community to reduce the number of cats that come to shelters, especially during this time of year,” says Bob Rohde, president and CEO of the Dumb Friends League.

The Dumb Friends League is currently serving as a temporary home to more than 900 adoptable cats in the Denver Metro area.

“The fact is that there are thousands more cats than there are responsible homes for them,” says Megan Rees, a spokesperson for the DFL.

Rees attributes part of the overpopulation problem to pet parents who choose to “purchase” cats from breeders and pet stores, instead of opening their hearts to shelter animals.

“By adopting, you’re not only giving one cat a second chance at a happy life, you’re also opening up space at the shelter for another homeless pet in need. Adopting a cat from an animal shelter can help address the issue of overpopulation at a higher level, which is the only way we can solve this problem — collectively, as a community,” she stresses.

There are many perks of adopting a shelter cat from CatFest. Not only will your new companion come with unconditional love and an abundance of fun times to be had, all cats will be spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. A complimentary visit with a participating veterinarian will also be included. Additionally, fees on adult cats one year or older will be waived during the event. Adult and senior cats, like Cooper, Uma, Ozzy, and Tommy (who are all available for adoption and ready to find families to call their very own), are the most likely to be overlooked by potential adopters.

“Older, more mature cats make wonderful pets,” says Rees. “There aren’t as many surprises in terms of behavior, and they tend to be more laid back and mellow, while remaining active and fun.”

Rees also asserts that the life expectancy for indoor cats is now an average of 15 years.

“Adopting a cat that’s 5 – 10 years old still gives you plenty of years of love and companionship,” she says.

So whether you’re looking for a kitten or a cat, CatFest will have you purring with joy. Who knows, you may even find the next big internet meme superstar.

“There is a Lil’ Bub or Grumpy Cat at every animal shelter,” exclaims Rees. “[They’re] just waiting to be discovered.”