A cattery is a highlight of the design for Gunnedah's new pound, the town's RSPCA branch says.
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Volunteer Linda Taylor said keeping dogs and cats apart in a pound was vital for the well-being of the felines.
"A separate cattery is a must because cats do not cope well at the best of times in those conditions," she said.
Where possible, Ms Taylor said cats should be in foster care, along with puppies and sick or injured animals.
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She also welcomed the news that the new pound design includes access to exercise runs from the dog cages.
"With new conditions, new upgrades, dogs can be housed in the pound in a humanitarian way where they're not suffering the type of stress that they would normally," Ms Taylor said.
"An upgrade to our pound would be beneficial."
Local vet Ann Luke echoed Ms Taylor's conviction that a cattery was "essential" and is very supportive of the entire proposed upgrade.
"It's wonderful to see that plans are under way for expanding ... the pound is smaller than it probably should be," Ms Luke said.
The vet said proactive residents, combined with the reach of social media, and the passion of the RSPCA, had been "taking pressure off" the council pound in recent years. However, as a councillor, she is pleased that the organisation is working towards finalising and endorsing a new design in the next 12 months.
Other features of the pound design include a medical procedure room, open secure yard, more dog enclosures, and isolation pens for animals that need veterinary care.
The council will install new purpose-built cat enclosures in the pound in the coming months.
Looking for a furry friend?
Gunnedah RSPCA has a number of fluffy felines in foster care who are looking for new homes. To find out more, contact foster carer Belinda Ruttley on 0499 299 361.