Little Katpaws: A Sanctuary for Rescued Cats in Singapore

August 2, 2025
Little Katpaws: A Sanctuary for Rescued Cats in Singapore

SINGAPORE – Little Katpaws, a cat sanctuary located on the second floor of a shophouse on Aliwal Street, serves as a vital refuge for rescued felines. Ms. Eva Helina Irman, the operations manager, oversees the shelter, which spans approximately 2,000 square feet and is designed to mimic a home environment to help cats acclimate to potential adoption situations. This initiative not only aims to enhance the lives of the cats but also to address the growing need for responsible animal care in urban settings.

Founded in 2016 by Ms. Irman's mother, Katrina Shamsudin, Little Katpaws began as a small venture with just ten cats. The shelter has since evolved, relocating to a larger facility in North Bridge Road in 2020, and expanding its capacity to house up to 40 cats. "I was only 13 when I encouraged my mother to foster cats, which eventually led her to start this sanctuary," recalled Ms. Irman. Over the years, the sanctuary has rescued numerous cats, including a notable incident where 40 felines were saved from a hoarding situation, resulting in 25 successful adoptions.

Despite the sanctuary's success, financial sustainability remains a pressing issue. Ms. Irman explained that the previous boarding service offered by her mother provided essential income, which has since diminished. Currently, donations cover about 30% of operational costs, with the rest coming from personal funds. "There have been months where we had to cover 90% of expenses ourselves due to low donations," she stated. This financial strain highlights the challenges faced by animal shelters relying on charitable contributions.

Little Katpaws currently shelters 30 cats, with stringent measures in place to ensure their health and safety. Sick cats are kept in enclosed glass areas to prevent the spread of diseases such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV). These conditions compromise the immune systems of affected cats, necessitating careful management to protect the rest of the population. "Segregating the sick cats doesn't hinder their well-being; they still receive sunlight and exercise while ensuring the healthy cats remain safe," Ms. Irman emphasized.

The shelter’s operational protocols reflect a commitment to high welfare standards, yet Ms. Irman noted the absence of national guidelines for shelters in Singapore. "We rely on online resources and our experiences to maintain a healthy environment for our residents," she explained. The lack of a unified framework for animal welfare standards leaves many shelters to develop their own practices, which can vary significantly.

The need for national regulations has become increasingly apparent. As Ms. Irman stated, "Only when new regulations are implemented will we be able to refine our practices in alignment with national standards." The call for improved guidelines resonates with animal welfare advocates who stress the importance of effective policies to ensure the humane treatment of animals across all shelters.

In conclusion, the work done by Little Katpaws is a testament to the dedication of individuals like Ms. Irman and her mother, who strive to create a safe haven for cats in need. As the sanctuary continues its mission, the hope for regulatory reform and increased community support remains essential to ensure the sustainability of such vital services in Singapore.

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