Working Cat Program (Barn Cats)

At the Ames Animal Shelter, we are committed to increasing adoptions and decreasing euthanasia. We do not believe an animal deserves to be put to sleep simply because they have not been socialized around humans. This often happens in the case of feral cats who have lived outdoors their entire lives and don't know that humans can be trusted companions. There is a very narrow window of socialization in a kitten's life where they can be easily socialized to live with humans, and while this can be overcome in some cats when that window is missed, that is not always possible.

To address this concern, we created our Working Cat Program. Cats who have been identified as feral cats by our team have the sticker or "Working Cat" on their bio photo. This indicates they are a participant in our Working Cat Program. (It is important to note that cats who DO NOT have this sticker on their photo are NOT eligible for our barn cat program.) Working cats live in facilities such as barns, warehouses, garages, or any other space where they "work" for their human guardians to control the rodent population.

Click Here to Apply for a Working Cat

FAQs About Our Working Cat Program

• How will I know which cats are in your Working Cat Program
  • All cats in our Working Cat Program are identified on their pictures with a “Working Cat Program” banner.
• What is the cost to adopt a working cat?
  • NONE! Working cats are a FREE adoption!
• What sorts of medical care have these cats received?
  • All cats in our working cats program are:
    • Spayed/Neutered
    • FeLV/FIV negative
    • Vaccinated for rabies and distemper
    • Tested for intestinal parasites and dewormed as appropriate
    • Had a topical flea preventative applied
    • Are implanted with a microchip – This helps get them back to you if they wander to another property and are caught as a stray cat and taken to an animal shelter, rescue, or veterinary clinic
• Do I need to fill out an application?
  • YES! We want to make sure they will be living in a safe/appropriate area.
• Do I need to buy anything to help my cat get set up?
  • Yes and no. You will need the basics such as food and water dishes, and a litter box should you want to provide them with something other than the dirt around your property. Our staff loans out for a one-month period the wire kennel and feral cat box you’ll need to introduce the cat to their new property.
• What sort of care will the cat require?
  • The benefit of barn cats to a lot of people is that they’re very low maintenance. You’ll want to ensure you have a large, warm space for them during times of inclement weather. 
  • Despite some beliefs, outdoor cats still require food and water to be offered to them. Providing regular food and water will keep the cat healthy, and will help them even more to feel like your property is "home" because of the constant meeting of their needs.
  • During colder months you'll need to make sure that water isn't freezing (there are watering bowls available that you can plug in and keep the dish warm and prevent water freezing)
  • During warmer months you'll need to make sure water is plentiful and cool to help them stay hydrated. You'll also want to watch their food for signs of insects.
  • CATS WHO RECEIVE FOOD/WATER FROM THEIR CARETAKERS WILL STILL HUNT ON THE PROPERTY. It's more out of instinct than hunger that cats hunt and kill vermin around properties.