In the heart of Northern California, there’s a place where cats rule the roost. It’s not your average animal shelter or rescue center. No, this is Fat Kitty City, a 20-acre cat paradise changing the game for feline welfare here at El Dorado Hills, California.
A Purr-fect Beginning
Fat Kitty City didn’t start as a sprawling cat sanctuary. In 1999, founders Cindy and Ed Minghelli started a simple spay and neuter program. Little did they know their modest effort would snowball into something much bigger. Within a year, they’d fixed nearly 1,000 animals. Talk about a productive start!
But the Minghellis weren’t content with just that. They soon ran adoption centers, rehoming 700 animals in 18 months. It was clear they were onto something big.
From Spay and Neuter to Kitty Utopia
In 2007, Fat Kitty City, as we know it today, was born. It all started with a doozy of a rescue mission: 75 cats and kittens facing homelessness due to a housing demolition. The Minghellis swooped in, trapped the whole lot, and brought them to their new digs. And just like that, Fat Kitty City was up and running.
Not Your Average Cat House
What makes Fat Kitty City special? For starters, it’s huge. We’re talking 20 acres of tree-filled, cat-friendly space. It’s like a five-star resort for felines, minus the tiny umbrellas in their milk bowls.
But it’s not just about size. Fat Kitty City is a haven for the underdogs (or should we say undercats?) of the feline world. Those shy, “aggressive,” or feral cats that other shelters might turn away? They’re VIPs here.
More Than Just a Pretty Face
Fat Kitty City isn’t just about giving cats a place to crash. They’re serious about ending animal suffering. They spay, neuter, socialize, and adopt out cats. They even help out with medical care for pet owners who can’t afford it. And get this—they’ve got a program that pairs senior cats with senior humans. It’s like a kitty retirement community but cuter.
The Fat Kitty City Promise
When you adopt a cat from Fat Kitty City, you’re not just getting a new furry friend. You’re getting a cat that’s been:
- Properly evaluated and socialized (no surprises when you bring them home)
- Given all the right vet care, shots, and fixed-up
- Matched with a loving family (that’s you!)
- Microchipped (in case they decide to go on an adventure)
If things don’t work out, Fat Kitty City will always take the cat back. It’s like a lifetime warranty but for cats.
The Nitty Gritty
Now, let’s talk logistics. Fat Kitty City isn’t just some fly-by-night operation. They’re a legit 501(c)3 non-profit with some big names backing them up, like PetSmart Charities and the Bob Barker Foundation. Yes, that Bob Barker. The Price is Right guy does care about pets!
The Good, The Bad, and The Furry
Of course, no organization is perfect. Some folks have had less-than-purrfect experiences with Fat Kitty City. There have been grumbles about strict adoption rules and hefty “endowments” for taking in cats. Communication hiccups have also been reported.
But there’s a glowing one singing Fat Kitty City’s praises for every grumpy review. Volunteers rave about the clean facilities and the genuine care shown to the cats. Adopters gush about the thorough matching process that helps cats find their ideal forever homes.
Join the Cat Party
Feeling inspired? There are plenty of ways to get involved with Fat Kitty City. You can adopt, of course. But if you’re not ready for a full-time feline friend, you can also foster, volunteer, or donate.
And if you’re just cat-curious, you can always swing by for a visit. Just remember, you might leave with a new furry family member. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!
The Bottom Line
Fat Kitty City isn’t just a shelter. It’s a movement. It’s a place where cats can be cats, where the underdogs (undercats?) get a second chance, and where animal lovers can make a real difference.
Next time you’re in El Dorado Hills, why not stop by? Who knows, you might just find your new best friend. Just don’t be surprised if they’re a little on the chubby side. After all, it is called Fat Kitty City for a reason!
Sources: fatkittycity.org, Fat Kitty City Humane Society Facebook Page
Header Image Source: Photo by Emre on Unsplash
