Animals

January 23. 2013 10:57PM

Owner dies, 16 Manchester cats need new homes

MANCHESTER - Sixteen cats are in need of homes after their owner died and they were surrendered to the Friends of the Manchester Animal Shelter (FMAS).

Angelica Ladd, spokesman for the shelter, said the cats, all different and with an average age of about 10 years, were quarantined when they first came into the shelter Jan. 15.

Many needed extensive medical or dental care, but half are expected to be put up for adoption this week. Ladd said a veterinarian determined all the males are neutered and will determine if the females are spayed as well.

"This is a sad case where we know that the owner loved her pets very much, but because her family was unable to care for the cats, they ended up here at the shelter," said Samantha Stein, assistant shelter manager. "All the cats are very friendly and don't mind being held or picked up, so we know they were loved."

"Thomas," a black, long-haired tiger/Maine coon mix with green eyes, was more than happy to pose for a photograph, which the shelter released.

The cats will receive full medical exams, necessary medical and dental care, vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery, if needed, before they are put up for adoption. Stein expects half will be ready for new families by week's end.

"These cats may be more difficult to place due to their age, but they still have a lot of life to live and a lot more love to give," said Stein. "Most indoor cats can live up to 17 or more happy and healthy years."

Anyone interested in adopting a cat must apply in person at the shelter located at 490 Dunbarton Road. It takes about 24 to 48 hours to obtain approval, which includes checks with a person's veterinarian and, if not a homeowner, a landlord to see if pets are permissible.

For more information on these cats or any animals in the FMAS, visit the website at www.manchesteranimalshelter.org or stop by the shelter. Donations for the care of these animals are gladly accepted online or by mail to 490 Dunbarton Road, Manchester, 03102.