Idaho Falls Animal Shelter lookingto update cat kennels

The Idaho Falls Animal Shelter is seeking public donations to help replace and expand their cat kennels.

IFAS is nearing their goal of becoming a “No-Kill” shelter for cats and is trying to improve the facilities for those animals. The shelter has already been designated a “No-Kill” shelter for dogs and has maintained that designation for several years.

In 2014, the IFAS impounded 2,173 cats. 71% of those cats were euthanized. Last year, just 21% of impounded cats were euthanized. In order to be designated a “No-Kill Shelter,” the shelter needs to get that number down to 10% or less.

Officials say there are several things that have contributed to that shift in numbers. One reason fewer cats are being euthanized is because of lower disease rates in the shelter. IFAS has taken several steps to lower disease rates including mandatory vaccinations for all animals on intake.

The next step? Updated kennels.

The current cat kennels are over 30 years old and in poor repair. Those kennels are made of metal with grate style covers, which are not comfortable for cats and do not meet current best-practice standards for disease control.

In 2015, IFAS replaced their kitten kennels with newer style kennels which are very similar to the proposed kennels that would be used for adult cats. These kennels, nicknamed “condos,” have more usable space, separate living and litter areas and a plexiglass style front. Since changing to the new kennels the shelter has seen a dramatic decrease in illness and illness-related deaths in kittens and is excited by the possibility of expanding the condos to the adult cat area.

Another factor that has impacted euthanasia is higher adoption rates. The new “condos” are much quieter and more comfortable for cats. This better environment allows feline residents to relax and to show more of their personality. This, along with higher visibility, increases their chances of a successful adoption and positively impacts their time at the shelter.

The Idaho Falls Animal Shelter is accepting donations of any size. They are also offering the option to “Donate a Condo.” For $1,500, the IFAS will be able to purchase a full condo and will affix a permanent plaque to the condo with a name, business name or memorial message for a beloved human or feline friend.

All donations are tax-deductible and can be made through the following methods.

In person at 2450 Hemmert Avenue, Idaho Falls, Idaho, 83401 By mail sent to 2450 Hemmert Avenue, Idaho Falls, Idaho, 83401 Over the phone by calling (208)612-8671 Via PayPal HERE