Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) received $25,000 from PetSmart Charities to decrease infectious respiratory diseases in shelter cats. Ranked as the No. 1 concern for shelter cats, upper respiratory infection (URI)—a highly contagious virus—can be a death sentence to shelter cats because shelters lack the resources to prevent its spread or to care for sick cats. Even with treatment, affected cats may have recurrent URI outbreaks when stressed.

The gift from PetSmart Charities will help fund two Helping Shelters Help Cats studies—part of the Happy Healthy Cat Campaign. These projects will evaluate shelter environments and how cage type, size and placement can affect the stress levels of cats. The findings will help shelter managers create the optimal environment for cats living in shelters, helping them stay healthy and stress-free until they are adopted.

ABOUT PETSMART CHARITIES®
PetSmart Charities, Inc. is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates and supports programs that save the lives of homeless pets, raise awareness of companion animal welfare issues, and promote healthy relationships between people and pets. Since 1994, PetSmart Charities has funded more than $88 million in grants and programs benefiting animal welfare organizations and, through its in-store pet adoption program, has helped save the lives of more than 3.8 million pets.  To learn more about how PetSmart Charities is working to help find a lifelong, loving home for every pet, visit www.petsmartcharities.org or call 1-800-423-PETS.