From Shelter to Superheros: Our Experience with “Working Cats”

By Michelson Found Animals

At Michelson Found Animals (MFA), we’re all about promoting pet health and well-being. But did you know that sometimes, feline well-being can also benefit your business? Long-time partners of MFA’s Better Neighbor Project (BNP), Kitty Bungalow, introduced us to this idea, and our BNP team has welcomed two incredible “working cats” into their warehouse family, and it’s been a win-win for everyone!

What are Working Cats?

Working cats are feral or semi-feral felines who may not thrive in a traditional home environment. These independent spirits excel at pest control, making them perfect partners for businesses that might struggle with unwanted visitors.

Why We Chose Working Cats

We were looking for an eco-friendly and humane way to address our occasional pesty visitors. Traditional traps and poisons can be harmful to the environment and even pose a threat to curious pets. Working cats, on the other hand, provide a natural and long-term solution. Rodents are biologically programmed to stay away from areas where predators are present. The smell of a working cat will immediately deter rats and mice. Working Cats “put to work” in businesses like warehouses and farms can provide years of service with minimal care.

The Kitty Bungalow Connection

Kitty Bungalow’s Executive Director, Toni Barrett, and BNP’s Program Manager, Victoria Piar, give KB’s Director of Volunteer Engagement, “Eileen,” some extra love for a job well done. Eileen is currently enrolled as a working cat at their office.

Kitty Bungalow, a fantastic non-profit organization in Los Angeles, rescues feral cats from shelters and places them in working environments, all at no cost. These cats are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and ear-tipped (a universal sign of a sterilized community cat). Most importantly, they get a safe haven with a purpose.

Introducing Ani & Dani!

**Ani and Dani, BNP’s working cats at their warehouse in Los Angeles**

The BNP team adopted a bonded pair, Ani and Dani, from Kitty Bungalow. While they weren’t very social cats in the beginning, they acclimated to the warehouse and BNP team slowly. The team provided them with a cozy shelter with access to food, water, scratching posts, and toys galore. It’s been over a year since their adoption, and they’ve grown to be comfortable and much more social in their new home. Their presence has kept our warehouse pest-free, and their playful antics add a touch of joy to our workdays.

The Benefits of Working Cats

Here are just a few reasons why adopting working cats is a great idea:

Humane pest control: It’s a safe and effective alternative to harsh chemicals.
Reduced costs: No more expensive traps or exterminators!
Happy cats: They get a safe, stimulating environment with plenty of food, company, and shelter.
Peace of mind: You’re helping animals in need while protecting your property.

Is a Working Cat Right for You?

If you own a business that struggles with mild pest control and have a safe space, working cats could be a purrfect solution! Contact your local animal shelter or a program like Kitty Bungalow to learn more.

Together, we can create a win-win situation for businesses, kitties, and the environment!

Questions for our BNP team on their experience? Email info@betterneighborla.org.