The Cat Protection Society of Victoria (CPSV) has reported a significant rise in vulnerable kittens arriving at its shelter, placing growing pressure on its foster care resources.
In the first three months of 2025, CPSV provided refuge for 280 kittens through its foster program – an increase of 62 per cent compared to the same period last year and more than double the number in early 2023.
CPSV, a not-for-profit organisation, relies on community donations and volunteers to support its operations. The average cost to provide three weeks of foster care per kitten is $525, bringing the total cost for the quarter to $147,000—excluding medical expenses and care for other cats in the shelter.
Rachel Bitzilis, Marketing and Communications Manager at CPSV, said the rise in numbers is overwhelming existing resources.
“More and more kittens are arriving at the shelter in the most heartbreaking condition—starving, helpless and alone,” she said. “These kittens are too young to be adopted, too small to survive on their own and desperately in need of a safe place to heal.”
Bitzilis also highlighted the importance of the shelter’s foster carers and ongoing community support.
“With love, care and a warm foster home, kittens get the chance to truly thrive,” she said. “Every tax-deductible donation helps make that possible, helping fund everything from soft, comforting toys to vital veterinary checks and vaccinations.”
CPSV has launched its annual tax appeal, running from 19 May to 30 June, calling on Victorians to contribute to the care of these animals. Donations will help cover the costs of foster care and desexing, with Bitzilis noting that “just $80 can desex a female kitten and prevent her from giving birth to more than 180 kittens in her lifetime.”
Among the recent rescues is Solomon, a six-week-old kitten found injured and alone under a porch. After receiving surgery and fluid therapy at CPSV, he was placed in the care of foster carer Hannah.
“Solomon was very shy when I brought him home. He just hid underneath the blankets in his carrier,” Hannah said. “Over three weeks, Solomon regained his strength and confidence. Seeing his growth in trust and the way he now interacts has been very rewarding.”
Now ready for adoption, Solomon’s story highlights the critical role of foster carers, and the impact donations can make.
To make a tax deductible, lifesaving donation visit www.catprotection.com.au/campaigns/tax-appeal/.
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