Freya is one of many cats available for adoption through the Fayetteville Animal Shelter.

Courtesy photo

Residents can adopt a cat or kitten for free this week.

The Fayetteville Animal Shelter’s fourth annual Free Cat Friday event is set for Friday, Nov. 21.

The annual event has helped find homes for over 150 cats and kittens since launching in 2011, and shelter officials are hoping for continued success this fall.

“We currently have over 50 cats and kittens needing loving homes” said Justine Lentz, the city’s animal services superintendent. “This is still a busy time of year for us and we want to see these kitties in homes for the holiday season.”

Lentz said with the holidays approaching, it is a happy time of year for many people, but can also be a lonely time for others.

“We thought that people looking for companionship might want to consider adopting a cat or kitten,” said Lentz. “Their love is truly unconditional.”

All of the available cats and kittens will be spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated, prior to going to their new home. The shelter will open at 10 a.m. Friday, and all cats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. As a result, shelter staff recommend that adopters get there early.

Anyone interested in adopting a cat is encouraged to fill out an adoption application in advance to allow the staff time to get the application approved before the event. Applications may be picked up at the Fayetteville Animal Shelter, 1640 S. Armstrong Ave., or on the city’s website (PDF download here).

Also, make sure to properly prepare for bringing your new pet home. All cats and kittens are required to leave the shelter in a carrier. Cardboard carriers can be purchased at the shelter for $5.