‘Cat Champions’ profiles young people who make difference in lives of cats

In Cat Champions, Caring for Our Feline Friends (Pajama Press, 2014), author Rob Laidlaw introduces young readers to “another world” of cats, beyond the experience of those fortunate animals who have loving owners.

“Pet cats can become lost or abandoned and must fend for themselves. Feral cats who have not been spayed or neutered give birth, producing more homeless cats, sometimes in large numbers. Neglected cats can become sick or injured. Animal shelters cannot find homes for all the cats they receive; many shelters destroy cats that are not adopted out quickly.”

Far from being tragic, however, the book offers a powerful message: that young people can make a difference.

Laidlaw profiles young people who raise funds, foster animals, help to spay and neuter feral cats, socialize cats to improve their chance of adoption and raise attention and awareness.

He calls these people “Cat Champions” and credits them with saving hundreds of thousands of cats. His goal is that when young people read these stories, they in turn will be inspired to find a way to help cats. “You’ll also learn about what it takes to rescue, foster, socialize, and adopt cats and kittens.”

The book is lavishly illustrated with heart-warming pictures of cats.

This reviewer has so many reasons for recommending Cat Champions, not least of which are the wonderful cats with whom I have shared my home. As a library worker, I want to put this book in the hands of every child who cares deeply about cats. Perhaps another “Cat Champion” will join the effort to make the world a better place for cats.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a review copy of this book from the publisher. The opinion expressed is my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”