Calling all cat lovers: win a catio and other great prizes while keeping your cat safe!

The Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes (HSKL) is thrilled to announce a new initiative to help keep cats safe and support local wildlife: the “Keep Cats Safe Pledge” contest. Cat owners who pledge to keep their feline companions indoors will be entered into a draw to win exciting prizes—including two grand-prize “catios”, secure outdoor enclosures that allow cats to enjoy nature without exposure to outdoor hazards, valued at $600 each.

Additional prizes, generously provided by Pet Valu Lindsay, include bundles of indoor cat entertainment such as toys, scratch mats, and laser pointers. The prize draws will take place on Thursday, July 17th, 2025.

“Making the responsible choice to keep your cat indoors will significantly enhance your cat’s quality of life and contribute positively to the environment,” says Emily Harris, executive director of HSKL, said in a press release. Indoor cats typically live much longer, often into their late teens or twenties, compared to the 5–7 years of their outdoor counterparts. Outdoor cats face numerous hazards such as traffic, predators, parasites, toxins, and harsh weather.

There’s also an environmental impact. According to Nature Canada, outdoor cats are a significant threat to bird populations, contributing to millions of bird deaths annually. That’s why Bird Friendly Kawartha Lakes is proud to support this initiative, and Nature Canada is backing the campaign with a generous grant.

By taking the pledge, participants are not only protecting their beloved pets but also helping preserve vulnerable wildlife populations.

Visit the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes Shelter today at 107 McLaughlin Rd, Lindsay, ON to take the pledge, complete a ballot, and give your cat a safer, healthier life—while making a positive difference in the environment.