Every Cat Counts
Every Cat Counts; The First National Population Survey of Cats Within The Rehoming Environment in Fifteen Years
Every Cat Counts is the first national population survey in 15 years to examine the population of cats within the rehoming environment. The project was created not only to understand the number of cats currently being cared for, but also to explore the vital and complex work carried out by the wonderful organisations dedicated to supporting them.
At the heart of Every Cat Counts is the desire to improve the lives of cats, including those within the rehoming environment. By gathering robust data, the project aims to support better decision-making around population management, resource allocation, and future legislation.
To achieve this we need your help!
If you are interested in our research project there’s further information below:
Why is understanding cat populations in the rehoming environment important?
Previous research has shown that whole cat populations are made up of four interconnected subpopulations (owned, feral, stray and those within the rehoming environment) which have the ability to influence each other1. While cats within the rehoming environment are in a transient state and potentially form the smallest subpopulation, rehoming environments can have a significant influence on the cat population as a whole.
Cats can overpopulate an area really easily due to their ability to rapidly reproduce. Not only can cats become pregnant from 4 months, depending on their environment, they can reproduce all year round. Recent discussions with rehoming volunteers and staff, highlight growing concerns about increasing numbers of stray cats potentially driven by increases in accidental litters and abandonment. Alongside this, increased rates of relinquishment, with many individuals being forced to give up pets due to affordability and rental restrictions, are placing significant strain on rehoming environments.
Understanding cat populations within rehoming environments is a vital step in easing some of the challenges that organisations face. Behind every statistic is a cat in need and a team working tirelessly to provide safety, care, and a second chance. By shedding light on population trends and identifying where the challenges are greatest, this project aims to improve our understanding of the scale and impact of rehoming organisations to support collaboration and planning across the sector — helping organisations make evidence-based decisions to support cat populations, continue their compassionate work improving the welfare of cats in care.
What we’re doing to understand cat populations in the rehoming environment?
We’re developing the first national survey of the population of cats within the rehoming environment in over 15 years. This study is informed by a comprehensive review of existing research in the field and is grounded in engagement with those working directly within rehoming settings.
Data collection has been informed through workshops and focus groups with rehoming staff and volunteers, enabling the integration of professional knowledge, lived experience, and sector-wide perspectives. These insights have been essential in ensuring the survey accurately reflects current practices, challenges, and population dynamics within rehoming environments.
How can you help?
We feel really strongly about including every organisation big and small who helps with the rehoming of cats in UK, for us every cat counts and so do the people involved. You can check the map below or click the link to open the Rehoming organisations list.xlsx to see if your local rehoming organisation is included and if it’s not, please add the details to Add Organisations Details to the Rehoming Organisation List – Fill out form so we can make sure to include them.
Add your local rehoming organisation to the Rehoming Organisation List
We would like to thank Cats Protection who have funded this project, those within the rehoming environment who have taken the time to provide their knowledge and assistance, and to you for taking the time to read and learn about the project. Together we can make sure that Every Cat Counts.
If you would like any further information please get in touch via email every-cat-counts@bristol.ac.uk.
1. McDonald, J., Finka, L., Foreman-Worsley, R., Skillings, E., & Hodgson, D. (2023). Cat: Empirical modelling of Felis catus population dynamics in the UK. Plos one, 18(7), e0287841.