Hot Cares supports Joburg’s feral cat rescue network

Every night, while most of Johannesburg sleeps, another hidden community comes to life. In the shadows of shopping centres, business parks and industrial yards, thousands of feral cats are fighting simply to survive – born not out of nature, but out of human neglect.

That’s where The Cat Family Foundation steps in. Founded by three passionate volunteers – Ingrid Deacon, Alise Antrobus and Heather Tluczek – this small NPO is dedicated to reducing the suffering of feral cats through TNR: Trap, Neuter, Return.

It’s a simple, humane idea with a powerful long-term impact. Cats are trapped, sterilised, vaccinated and returned to their territory, where they can no longer breed. Over time, colonies stabilise and slowly decline. There’s less fighting, less yowling, fewer sick kittens – and a life with more dignity for the cats who remain.

Behind that calm, though, is an enormous amount of work. So far this year, The Cat Family Foundation has facilitated the sterilisation of over 200 feral cats and actively manages 16 colonies, while rescuing and fostering countless kittens from places like Clearwater Mall, Makro Strubens Valley, office parks in Strydom Park, schools, golf estates and even the Lion and Safari Park.

In September, one extraordinary day brought in multiple feral moms, litters of newborn kittens, and a late-night “2-in-1 special” where a trapped female gave birth in transit – turning the trio’s homes into a “military-style” rescue operation overnight. With no office, no shelter and no big sponsor, they juggle traps, vet runs, markets, bottle feeding and medical bills – often using their own money to keep going.

Hot Cares was deeply moved by their courage and commitment. Thanks to our generous supporters, Hot Cares is donating R50 000 towards The Cat Family Foundation’s TNR campaign, as well as R10 000 worth of cat food, made possible by our friends at Cube Route, exclusive importers of Brit Premium Pet Food.

Together, we’re helping to break the cycle of suffering – one sterilisation, one bowl of food, and one rescued life at a time.