June is National Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, and it’s officially kitten season at the Wake County Animal Center! That means tiny paws, playful tricks and a whole lot of meows. But behind the cuteness lies a serious need. Every spring and summer, shelters like ours are flooded with kittens who need loving homes.

“Now’s the purr-fect time to adopt, foster, volunteer or help spread the word and make a big difference for these little lives,” said Wake County Commissioner Tara Waters. “Every effort counts, whether you’re giving a kitten a forever home, providing temporary care or simply sharing their stories.”

To celebrate, the Wake County Animal Center is hosting a special adoption event exclusively for cats. For the entire month of June, you can adopt any cat over six months old for just $5!

Right now, there are 12 cats and 11 kittens available for adoption on the adoption floor, with nine cats currently in foster care. All adoptions include spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations and a microchip.

How you can help this season

• Adopt adult cats. They make wonderful, calm companions.
• Consider adopting a pair. Kittens often do best with a playmate.
• Ask questions. Our staff is here to match you with the right cat.
• If you have pets, please make sure to spay and neuter them. It’s one of the most important ways to help reduce overpopulation and keep our furry friends healthy.
• We’re always in need of dedicated fosters who can provide a safe, loving space for kittens to grow until they’re ready for adoption. Kittens must be at least two pounds and eight weeks old before they can be adopted because they need to be spayed or neutered first, and this procedure can’t be done until they reach the required weight and age.
   

What to do if you find a litter of kittens
During kitten season, it’s common for well-meaning people to find outdoor kittens and bring them to shelters, but that’s not always the best solution. In many cases, the mother is simply out looking for food and will return shortly. Separating kittens from their mother too soon can harm their health and development. Kittens should stay with their mother until they are at least eight weeks old.

• Stop and observe. If the kittens look clean and are sleeping or nursing, their mother is likely nearby.
• Do not disturb. A mother cat provides the best chance of survival.
• Wait and watch. If mom doesn’t return after 6–8 hours, or if the kittens are in immediate danger (sick, cold, injured or in a hazardous location), contact your local animal services for guidance.
   

Ready to adopt? Check out our adoption gallery or come by and see the sweet faces for yourself! The shelter is open for adoptions daily from noon to 6 p.m., seven days a week. It is located at 820 Beacon Lake Drive, near the intersection of I-440 and New Bern Avenue in Raleigh.