Welcome!
Welcome to Better Life Cats, a newly established cat organization in Polk County, Florida. I'm Amy, currently overseeing the care of over 150 cats. I want to be transparent—I don't have all the answers, and perfection isn't the goal. What I do have is a deep compassion for these cats and an unwavering commitment to improving their lives.
Caring for these cats has stretched my resources, and I recognize that ensuring their well-being requires a collective effort. So, a warm welcome to you, and thank you for showing interest in our nonprofit. I hope you'll join us on this journey and consider supporting our cause.
You might wonder, why cats? Unlike other animal populations with clear systems for food, water, and shelter, homeless cats seem to struggle with these basics. They lack a defined food source, and as non-native species, their challenges often lead to misery. Many of these cats live in the space between wild and domestication. Despite being undersocialized or feral, their fundamental desires for a good meal, a comfortable bed, and shelter from the elements remain unchanged. It's heartbreaking to witness their struggles, especially when you've developed a connection with these resilient animals.
I've seen cats curled up against a popular coffee chain to stay warm on a freezing Florida night. I've witnessed cats enduring hurricanes because eating means more than staying dry. Some drink water during weeks of drought, prioritizing hydration over food due to a lack of water sources. Others gather around dumpsters when food is scarce, highlighting the challenges they face daily. It's a stark reality that cats, once starving, can become overweight when rescued because they finally have regular access to food.
These feline friends wait patiently at restaurant doors, hoping for a handout. They linger in one spot for hours, knowing someone will come by and bring them dinner—that's all that matters to them.
Their lives are fraught with constant challenges—diarrhea, mange, fleas, parasites, fungus, and infections. Preventable infections persist because they haven't been vaccinated. Some cats, we suspect, have been pregnant, but we never see the kittens. If they haven't succumbed to the elements, many are tragically eaten alive by predators or struck by cars—a harsh reality to accept. Kittens born to this life face a 75% mortality rate, yet they are often the easiest to find homes for.
For these cats, humans can be either their friends or enemies. I've seen their lives threatened by people, particularly business owners and managers lacking compassion. Some cats have been killed or taken to Animal Control, facing euthanasia. If allowed to live, they are often released in situations with no food or water, just for trying to survive.
In Polk County, Florida, we face the highest euthanasia rate in the state. There's no free spay-neuter program, despite an average income level $20-$25,000 less than more affluent urban counties providing such programs. Our resources are limited, and Animal Control is often a death sentence for most cats. In the last eight months alone, they've euthanized 2500 cats, a heartbreaking reality. The Humane Society and SPCA have limitations, leaving rescuers with few options. Low-cost veterinary care in Polk County remains high, forcing owners and rescuers to seek affordable care in Tampa or Orlando.
Action is urgently needed. We require avenues for animals to receive routine, affordable veterinary care. Free spay, neuter, and vaccination programs are essential for everyone, not just low-income families. Adoptable cats need avenues to move out of this overpopulated, lower-income area into more adoptable regions. A pet food pantry is needed for those struggling to afford food for their pets. A kitten nursery is crucial for fragile bottle babies, requiring specialized care to survive. A sanctuary is essential for less adoptable cats, providing a safe home where they can live without constant threats.
Help is needed, whether through donations, volunteering time, purchasing fundraiser merchandise, sponsorship, or simply engaging with our website, social media, and videos. Every contribution, big or small, supports the work being done. Thank you for your time, empathy, and compassion. Together, let's work to solve problems and create a better life for these cats.
