The SPCA launched the second phase of the CatSnip initiative this week for cat lovers looking to spay or neuter their pets at low costs.

The ‘Snip Snip Hooray’ initiative aims “to greatly lessen” the amount of unwanted cats on the Island while ensuring that all owned cats are microchipped as well.

According to Sara Corday, SPCA Development and Volunteer Coordinator, “one mating pair of unneutered cats can lead to roughly 2,000 unwanted kittens in just three short years”.

“The need for this initiative has never been more apparent and the SPCA are pleased to invite applications for this low cost programme,” she said.

“Snip Snip Hooray is open to all owned cats on the Island who are microchipped and have tested negative for Feline HIV and Feline Leukemia (HIV and Leukemia testing is done prior to spay/neuter as part of the initiative).

“Owners may take advantage of the SPCAs Chip Chip Hooray programme and have their cat microchipped for just $20 in conjunction with the spay/neuter procedure,” she added.

The SPCA is offering the spay/neuter procedure at “a very low cost to the owner at either of the animal hospitals who support this campaign, Ettrick Animal Hospital or Endsmeet Animal Hospital”.

“The SPCA believes this initiative has numerous benefits to both the cat and the cat’s owner. Spay and neuter benefits the cat socially, medically and behaviorally by reducing the risk of straying and fighting males and reducing the risk of uterine infections and breast cancer in females,” said Ms Corday.

She noted that the SPCA receives numerous calls for assistance to spay or neuter pets. The charity also receives a host of unexpected kittens

SPCA president Allison Williams added: “One of the most responsible things you can do for your cat is to have him or her spay or neutered and the SPCA is very pleased to be able to offer this at a minimal cost to the owner.”

Applicants for the programme will have to apply to the SPCA and be approved before the procedure can take place as there are certain guidelines that must be met by the owner and the cat.

For more information visit the SPCA website at www.spca.bm, or Bermuda SPCA on Facebook, e-mail info@spca.bm or call 236-7333.