Cat Shelter in Kyoto

Japan Cat Network (JCN) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the well-being of cats throughout Japan. Founded in 2009, JCN operates as a network of volunteers, foster homes, and partner organizations with the shared mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray, abandoned, neglected, and abused cats across the country. In addition to cat rescue, JCN conducts spaying and neutering initiatives, educational outreach, and animal rights advocacy.

The cat shelter operated by JCN in Kyoto receives numerous daily requests for assistance from individuals across Japan seeking help for cats or kittens in need. Despite constant overcapacity and limited funding, the organization strives to provide guidance and resources to help more animals. Shelter staff actively trap feral cats, offer them refuge at the shelter for as long as necessary, provide veterinary care, nutrition, and socialization, and work to find foster or adoptive homes for the cats.

In addition to rescue efforts, JCN is committed to controlling the stray cat population through spaying and neutering initiatives. The organization conducts Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs to manage and stabilize feral cat colonies in a humane way, thereby reducing overpopulation and high euthanasia rates in shelters. TNR is recognized as an effective and compassionate approach to addressing the challenges of stray cat populations, preventing unnecessary suffering and death.

Moreover, JCN places significant emphasis on education and outreach to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership, cat welfare, and the importance of spaying and neutering. Through workshops, seminars, school activities, and educational campaigns, the organization strives to foster compassion and understanding toward cats among the public.

As a valuable resource for cat owners, JCN offers information, support, and advice on various aspects of cat care, behavior, and health. Through their website, social media platforms, and helpline, JCN provides assistance to individuals seeking guidance with their cats.

Your Volunteer Work in Cat Rescue

Volunteers actively work five days a week. Short-term volunteers participating for less than 3 weeks primarily take the morning shift at the cat shelter from 9:30 to 12:30, which involves cleaning the cat rooms and feeding the cats. They can also join the afternoon shift starting around 3 pm, which includes observing cats that are under veterinary treatment or with behavioral issues and documenting their condition. The afternoon shift typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes, after which volunteers can spend time playing with the cats if they wish. Evening feeding is usually handled by local volunteers.

Long-term volunteers staying for more than 3 weeks or those with specific skills can also contribute by creating online content, participating in Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) initiatives, and assisting with maintenance tasks such as bike repair, carpentry, and gardening to support the organization.