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Cat Capacity Reached: Broward County Animal Care Urges Adoptions of “Working Cats”

by Sharon Aron Baron August 28, 2025

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{Broward County Animal Care}

Broward County Animal Care is issuing an urgent call for help as the shelter faces a cat population crisis fueled by the annual flood of kitten season and several recent hoarding cases.

The agency, the county’s official pet adoption and animal welfare service, stated that the surge has pushed its cat capacity beyond critical levels, limiting its ability to take in additional animals.

To ease the strain, Animal Care is encouraging residents to adopt semi-social “working cats.” Unlike traditional house cats, working cats thrive in barns, stables, warehouses, nurseries, and backyards—places where they can live safely, provide natural pest control, and still receive food and care.

“These cats are survivors, but they cannot succeed without community support,” said Doug Brightwell, director of Broward County Animal Care. “By opening your space to a working cat, you are saving lives and helping us protect all the animals in our care.”

All cats are spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped before adoption. Fees are often waived, and starter support is available.

“With just a little help from the community, these cats can live healthy, purposeful lives, and our shelter can continue caring for all animals who need us,” Brightwell said.

How to Help

Adopt a Working Cat: Provide space, safety, and a second chance.
Spread the Word: Share with neighbors, friends, and businesses.
Go Online: View available cats at PetAdoptions.Broward.org.

For more information, visit Broward.org/Animal.

Broward County Animal Care is located at 2400 S.W. 42nd St., Fort Lauderdale, and provides animal services, adoptions, and community education throughout the county.

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