Our Mission
CIHS is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to rescuing animals and providing welfare for them. Located just 26 miles off the coast of beautiful Southern California, we’re the island’s only rescue and shelter facility. We are committed to ensuring no animal is killed by providing shelter, adoption, and health services for pets in need.
Our network of tireless volunteers is available, around-the-clock, to provide support and encouragement to our community’s efforts to care for its Island animals. We provide education for, and increase awareness of, humane animal practices. We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has been caring for animals since 1975. Our veterinarian is a proud member of the Animal Clinic of Catalina
How We Help
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Trap, Neuter, Release
Our TNR program is a vital part of managing and caring for feral cat colonies on the island. Dedicated volunteers trap cats, provide them with veterinary care, and have them spayed or neutered. After assessing their adoptability, cats deemed unadoptable are returned to their colonies, where our volunteers continue to care for them by providing food, water, and shelter. This ongoing care ensures the health of the colonies and contributes to a healthier cat population in the surrounding neighborhoods. Since our founding in 1975, we've successfully trapped and treated an average of 100 cats each year.
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Our Cat Rescue
Our small but essential cat rescue consists of three rooms housed in a trailer, where we care for cats awaiting adoption. The rescue comfortably houses up to 18 cats, with a focus on finding them permanent homes through adoption or foster care as quickly as possible. Each cat receives regular veterinary check-ups, and our volunteers ensure they are well-fed and that their living spaces are cleaned twice a day. Visitors are welcome to stop by and spend time with the cats—just reach out to donate@catalinahumane.org to schedule a visit, or use the contact form.
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Adoption
Our adoption process is thorough yet straightforward, designed to match cats with loving and capable homes. It begins with an application reviewed by our adoption committee, followed by an interview and reference checks. We then work with you to find the best match for your household, taking into account both the cat’s temperament and your needs. To ensure a smooth transition, we provide essential supplies, guidance on what to expect, and ongoing support from our volunteers, who are just a call or text away. Our goal is to create lasting and joyful connections between cats and their new families.
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Community Outreach & Support
We’re committed to supporting our local community through various outreach programs. When funds allow, we assist residents* with veterinary costs, particularly for spaying and neutering. We also maintain a presence at community events, where we raise awareness about our programs and offer advice on keeping pets healthy. Our long-standing partnership with Dr. Denny of the Animal Clinic of Catalina is invaluable, and we’re always looking to collaborate with other veterinary professionals who share our mission.
*use contact formfor more info
Get Involved
Adopt a cat or volunteer at our shelter.