Oldham Cats was founded in 1995 when 2 existing rescues joined forces and we became a registered charity in 1996.
In February 1997 we temporarily moved into the old RSPCA building in Oldham, and moved to our current location in August 1998. Oldham Cats Rescue is an independent cat rescue based in Middleton. As an independent rescue we are responsible for raising the funds required to ensure that we are capable of looking after our cats to the best of our ability and to be able to keep providing a safe space for cats and kittens.
About us
Our Story
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We are able to exist due to a dedicated team of volunteers who are involved in both the day to day running of the rescue and in raising the funds we need to function. We are also incredibly grateful to our wonderful supporters who help constantly with donations of food, money and other items that we can use to fundraise with, as well as attending our fayres and other functions. ​
Alongside the joy in helping the cats, being a volunteer at the rescue can give you a sense of belonging. Each volunteer has their own reason for being there but together we can provide a supportive network for each other when life may be hard. We aim to provide a safe space for both our cats and our volunteers – we are a community built on camaraderie, friendship and respect.
A day in the life
It's easy to picture rescue life as playing with kittens, having cuddles with cats, drinking tea and eating biscuits…….believe us, that does happen but it’s not the mainstay of each day.
The first job of the day is breakfast for the cats. Should you happen to be running late, they will let you know that they’re going to complain to management. Once everyone is fed, the dirty bowls are washed and the dishwasher loaded/unloaded - then comes the job of cleaning. In order to maintain hygiene levels and prevent cross contamination each cage has it’s own bucket, dustpan & brush and the volunteer wears fresh aprons and gloves for every cage. We are very stringent in these procedures that are there to protect the cats - you will also notice when you visit that you are asked to wear gloves and apron to stroke cats and this is all for the same cross contamination reasons.
During the cleaning of each cage we make a note of the food the cats have eaten and whatever is in the litter trays. It’s all about the poo! It’s important that the ‘input & output’ for each cat are monitored as this can highlight any health issues. Once all the cats have been cleaned, medications administered as required, files filled in and the room surfaces have all been wiped down, all the equipment is taken to our shed for washing. Thanks to fundraising last year we now have a metal shed equipped with 2 grooming baths where we wash all our equipment in a bleach solution. This is definitely the less glamourous but really important side of volunteering at the rescue.
Alongside performing the cleaning and washing duties, we are open to the public (except Tuesdays), so have to maintain a tidy space in order to be ready to show the cats off to potential adopters. Other visitors may be bringing donations in and often have stories to share about their cats – we’re always happy to make time to listen.
Once all the sanitized equipment has been returned to the required locations, we have to make sure that there is adequate stock in each place of food, bowls, clean litter trays and PPE. If time permits then we may get to spend some time with the cats and kittens, prioritizing those that may benefit from some extra attention.
Meet Lennon!
Dumped at the rescue in a carrier overnight. The beatles were playing on the radio when we found him, hence the name. This beautiful boy now has his purfect forever home
