I’ve found a stray cat. Can I bring them to Pooka’s Purrhouse?

We truly appreciate your heart for helping animals, but Pooka’s Purrhouse is a very small, home-based rescue focused specifically on cats at immediate risk from coyote predation in our neighborhood. We are only able to bring in a limited number of cats at a time due to space, funding, and the level of personalized care we provide.  If you've found a cat in need, please reach out to a local full-capacity rescue with intake resources, such as:

• Berkeley Humane Society

• Community Concern for Cats

• East Bay SPCA

• JoyBound

You can also post on local neighborhood apps like Nextdoor, PawBoost, or community Facebook groups. We’re happy to answer questions if we can.

What kind of cats do you rescue?

We focus on cats who are in active danger—particularly those living near coyote-prone areas where their lives are at immediate risk. Many of the cats we rescue were once cared for or had some human interaction but were abandoned or left to roam in unsafe conditions. We often spend weeks or months gaining their trust before gently bringing them into safety. Our goal is not just rescue—but rehabilitation, healing, and finding the right match if they are adoptable.

How can I help?

• Donate high-quality food: Many of the cats we take in have immediate or chronic health needs. Brands like Nulo, Iams, Weruva, Rawz, Tiki Cat, and Royal Canin Veterinary diets help us provide clean nutrition that supports their recovery.
  
  

• Send supplies: We use litter, heating pads, carriers, and supplements daily. Reach out for our wish list or Amazon registry.
  
  

• Share our stories: Spreading the word about our adoptable cats or fundraising needs helps us more than you know.
  
  

• Make a monetary donation: Every dollar helps us cover vet bills, emergency transport, and basic care. We're 100% self-funded.

I want to help outdoor cats. What should I do if there are strays in my neighborhood?

Start by observing if the cat is truly stray or just roaming. Look for a tipped ear (indicating they've been fixed), try posting them on community lost & found groups, and ask around. If the cat is in danger, contact a larger rescue group for assistance. You can also:

• Set out food and water regularly

• Create a shelter using Rubbermaid bins or similar

• Look into Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs to help reduce overpopulation

Why are you so selective about the cats you take in?

Because of our limited space, resources, and commitment to individual healing, we are only able to take in the cats we know we can provide for fully. Many of our rescues need medical attention, high-grade food, and weeks of trust-building before they’re even ready to be touched. We choose quality over quantity — not just to protect the cats, but to prevent burnout and ensure we’re doing this for the long haul.