Horsham PAWS cat co-ordinator Penny Stemp said 146 cats had been adopted through the rehousing program this year.

In the program’s first year in 2009-10, nine cats were rehoused. More than 170 cats went to homes in 2014-15.

Mrs Stemp said the program’s success was due to partnerships between the two groups, Your Family Vet in Horsham, Horsham Veterinary Clinic and Horsham Petstock.

“It also relies on a dedicated team of foster carers who take cats and kittens into their homes and look after them until they find a new home, and numerous other volunteer roles, including support from the wider PAWS committee,” she said.

“None of this could happen without the fantastic working relationship between Horsham PAWS’ cat team and council’s community safety officers. 

“We’ve found them all to be animal lovers and quite sensitive to the often challenging and difficult decisions that need to be made.

“We can’t save every cat as finances just don’t allow it, but those that cannot be put through the program are treated with respect and sensitivity.”

Mrs Stemp said Horsham PAWS members and officers spoke daily. 

“It has to be a good working relationship or the cat program just couldn’t work,” she said.

Officer Wayne Lane said Horsham PAWS had been a great help to council staff and the city’s pound.

“Dogs and cats are moved in and out of the pound very quickly, which lessens the work load on the rangers,” he said. “The number of cats being rehoused has increased out of sight.

“Every year it gets bigger and this means less euthanising, which means a lot less stress on all the team.  

“My congratulations go out to the Horsham PAWS people, as their work is all volunteering and the ones I am in constant contact with work long hours, all for enjoyment of seeing these dogs and cats find new homes.”

Foster carer Susannah Wafker said the role had enriched her life.

“In March 2015, I adopted my gorgeous cat Missy through Horsham PAWS,” she said

“All stages of her adoption were carried out with the utmost professionalism. Missy is the wonderful cat she is directly because of her initial foster care and the love she received.

“I volunteered to be a carer because of this experience.

“I've gained great insight into handling and training techniques and animal behaviour.

“I also get to know each cat's personality intimately, ensuring forever home success.”

Mrs Stemp said people could call her on 0402 216 267 for more information.