As a devoted pet lover who firmly believes in the welfare of animals, I am compelled to shed light on the heart-wrenching story of an unnecessary pregnancy endured by a gentle and sweet cat and the tragic loss of her newborn kitten to serve as a reminder that while we have made great strides in the policies and programs surrounding cat welfare and affordable veterinary care, we still have ways to go. 

A darling cat was roaming the streets like many others until a family intervened to provide her with an indoor/outdoor situation. Unfortunately, they could not cover the low-cost spay services offered to them by the cat community. Soon the cat went into heat, became difficult to manage, and ended up giving birth to a litter of kittens outdoors. The family considered constructing an outdoor DIY shelter for the cat family though timely advice redirected them to provide a safe place in their home. This revealed one kitten’s struggle to nurse.

The family could not take this kitten to a vet due to financial constraints and reached out for help. A local rescue, Ace Kitty Rescue Force, offered advice and tips and quickly connected them with an experienced neonatal foster who visited their home. The family was given proper formula and supplies at no cost by the rescue. They were educated on the necessary care and techniques needed for this kitten, but stated they would not be able to provide such a care. At this point, the rescue agreed to intake the cat family. Tragically, the kitten succumbed to medical complications arising from prior mismanagement after joining the rescue.

These situations can easily be avoided with proper education on the importance of spay/neuter and resource support from our local government. Sign this petition today to remind policymakers of the need to fund low-cost veterinary clinics and free spay/neuter programs to keep families united and prevent tragic losses in the future.

(Currently, the surviving cat family is undergoing rehabilitation with the efforts of the rescue. Unfortunately, the family has been suddenly demanding their return despite a mutually agreed plan of return that prioritizes the kittens and cat's well-being. The family's actions to defame Ace Kitty Rescue Force stand in stark contrast to the rescue’s history of having helped thousands of cats receive the medical care they needed, and hundreds of families care for their pets. Ultimately, this rescue, like many others, hopes to provide a safe haven for cats in need with the goal of uniting them with their families once they are ready. To learn more about the family’s side of this story, click here: https://www.change.org/p/expose-and-stop-ace-kitty-rescue-s-unethical-practices-in-san-jose