Big hearts needed for little ones

HUNDREDS of stray and abandoned kittens are in need of foster carers to help cope with the influx of animals arriving at Tasmanian shelters.

Ten Lives Cat Centre manager Noel Hunt said November and December were traditionally busy months for shelters and this year was no exception.

The centre currently has 300 kittens in foster care, with more cats arriving daily.

Mr Hunt said in one hectic two-hour period this week the New Town shelter had 40 unwanted cats and kittens arrive at the door.

“When kitten season starts, it starts,’’ he said.

“Already today we’ve seen 22 cats and it’s only 2pm, so there will be more to come.’’

He said many kittens were brought in by good Samaritans who found strays. Others are surrendered by pet owners who didn’t desex their cat and didn’t want a litter of kittens.

Mr Hunt said many people didn’t realise kittens could fall pregnant as young as four months of age, giving birth to their first litter of kittens at just six months old.

The centre has a couple of hundred foster carers but needs more.

Mr Hunt said people could become ongoing foster carers or volunteer for a one-off placement.

Carers typically take kittens home for a few weeks until they are ready to be adopted.

Some require simple care while others have health issues and need to be bottle fed every two hours.

Food, supplies and vet care are provided — carers just need to have a “big heart”.

“We couldn’t do what we’re doing now without foster carers,’’ Mr Hunt said.

To find out more call 6278 2111 or visit tenlives.com.au.