For Immediate Release

Oct. 20, 2025

Priscilla Feral, president, Friends of Animals (203) 656-1522 feral@friendsofanimals.org

As more veterinary practices are bought up by large corporations, skyrocketing prices are putting breeding control surgeries out of reach for countless cats, and those in Utica, New York, are no exception.

Since there’s no debate that affordable health care prevents homelessness, on Oct. 27-28, Friends of Animals will be gifting 60 free male cat neuter certificates, as well as rabies and distemper shots to Utica residents in need.

The value of these procedures is approximately $10,000, and will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Pet owners interested in receiving a no cost certificate should call 1-800-321-PETS, beginning on Monday, Oct. 27 at 9 a.m. and through Tuesday, Oct.28. EST. Cat neutering certificates, which include rabies and distemper shots, will be awarded until 60 are issued.

“We know that Utica is inundated with homeless cats,” Priscilla Feral, president of Friends of Animals says. “Many are strays and access to affordable cat care is paramount in the fight against pet abandonment. We’re also thrilled that Dr. Keith Blackmore of Mohawk Valley Cat Care in Clinton, New York, will assist our effort for this special promotion in Utica.

Feral adds, “In Utica, one sees stray and feral cats and kittens trying to get across the street.  Some are dead in the road, and this crisis can only be abated by an effective breeding control effort.  We intend to deliver that result with Dr. Blackmore’s generous help.”

Friends of Animals’ unique, affordable spay-neuter program for cats and dogs is comprised of a network of approximately 500 cooperating veterinarians.

Friends of Animals, an international animal protection organization founded in 1957, advocates for the rights of animals, free-living and domestic around the world. www.friendsofanimals.org