From Passion to Action: The Women Behind North Coast Cat Rescue

In a world that often overlooks the quiet struggles of animals, a group of friends decided they had seen enough. 

In September 2024, the North Coast Cat Rescue (NCCR) officially launched – the brainchild of Alison Hagan, Leah Cox, and Chloe McGarvey, friends who bonded over a shared love of cats and a desire to make a real difference.

These women first met while volunteering for another animal charity, but it was the continuous call for help across Facebook groups and a growing feral cat crisis that spurred them into action. 

“We kept seeing people asking for help with cats online, but there just wasn’t enough support available locally,” says Chloe. “We realised if we didn’t do something, nothing would change.”

Their mission is simple yet impactful - to improve the welfare of cats in the North Coast by using Trap, Neuter and Return (TNR). This humane approach tackles the root of the crisis, preventing unwanted litters, reducing fighting and disease, and creating stable, healthier colonies.

“We all just adore cats,” Chloe shares. “They have such unique personalities and bring so much companionship. It’s impossible not to fall in love with them.”

Despite all working full time, the women behind North Coast Cat Rescue dedicate their evenings and weekends to saving lives. “It’s definitely a team effort,” says Chloe. “We all juggle our day jobs alongside NCCR, so cat duties usually happen after work hours – but it’s totally worth it.” Each member plays a vital role in keeping the rescue running smoothly.

Leah is the logistical powerhouse behind the operation. “Leah’s amazing – she’s responsible for transporting the cats to and from the vets,” Chloe explains. “She also provides them with essential care and a safe, quiet space to recover for 24 hours after their neutering before they’re released back to their homes. She’s incredibly organised and makes sure each cat gets exactly what they need.”

Chloe herself balances the dual role of social media manager and hands-on trapper. “I look after the social media side of things – answering enquiries, creating posts, raising awareness – but I also help out with trapping alongside Leah and volunteers,” she says. 

“We usually go out trapping two evenings a week, and depending on how cooperative the cats are, it can take anywhere from two to three hours!” It’s a hands-on commitment, but one Chloe says is “completely rewarding, especially seeing the cats back in their familiar surroundings, safe and healthier.”

Alison takes charge of the behind-the-scenes essentials. “Alison handles our finances and also fosters cats for us,” Chloe shares. “She makes sure every cat or kitten is properly vet checked, blood tested, de-flead, wormed, and microchipped before we find them a forever home. Her fostering work is amazing – she gives those cats the best start to their new lives.”

Together, Leah, Chloe, Alison and their volunteers form the beating heart of NCCR, balancing careers and commitments while changing countless lives – one cat at a time.

Since their launch, NCCR has TNR’d an impressive 115 cats and rehomed 11 friendly cats and kittens. The local community has embraced their efforts with open arms, welcoming a more compassionate solution to the feral cat population. They’ve also helped reunite lost cats with owners, provided advice, and stepped in to rescue injured ferals when needed.

While their journey has been full of rewarding moments, it's not without challenges.

“One of the hardest parts is when our help is declined,” says Chloe. “Knowing cats are out there suffering and not being able to intervene – it’s absolutely gutting.” 

The team face an ongoing uphill battle to educate the public about the importance of neutering pet cats and promoting TNR (Trap, Neuter and Return) as the best way to improve the lives of feral cats. 

“It's frustrating because neutering is such a simple thing that can save so many lives,” Chloe adds. “But changing minds takes time, and we're determined to keep pushing.”

One case that particularly struck a chord with the team involved a friendly, unneutered stray found in appalling condition. 

“He was in such a bad way – matted right to the skin and crawling with fleas,” Chloe recalls. “We knew we couldn’t just leave him.” 

The team took him in, organised urgent veterinary care, and stayed by his side through his recovery, even as he had to be shaved almost completely to treat the damage. 

“We were all heartbroken seeing him like that,” Chloe says. “But seeing him now, thriving in a loving home where he’s safe and cared for – that’s what keeps us going.”

A huge part of North Coast Cat Rescue’s mission is busting myths about feral cats. “They might look just as cute and fluffy as pet cats, but true ferals aren’t suited to being indoor companions,” Chloe explains. “Trying to force socialisation can be really stressful for them.”

The team is passionate about raising awareness of the ‘socialisation window’ – the crucial first eight weeks of a kitten’s life when they can be gently introduced to humans. “If that window’s missed, it’s very hard – sometimes impossible – for an adult feral cat to adapt,” Chloe says. Instead, NCCR focuses on what’s best for the cats: keeping them healthy, neutered, and safe outdoors, where they belong.

“For us, TNR is about creating stable, healthy colonies and giving feral cats the best life possible on their own terms,” Chloe adds. “It’s the most compassionate way forward.”

Looking ahead, North Coast Cat Rescue has big dreams. “We want to help even more cats and keep spreading the message about ferals and TNR,” says Chloe. 

The team hopes to expand their work across a wider area, but they know they’ll need more passionate volunteers to make it happen. They’re also planning to grow their rehoming efforts, giving even more cats and kittens the second chance they deserve.

There are so many ways the public can support their work — from volunteering in different roles, to sharing posts on social media, or donating to help cover the ever-growing vet bills. 

“Every donation, every shared post, every new volunteer makes a real difference,” Chloe says. “Together, we can create a kinder future for cats on the North Coast.”

For more information you can contact then on Facebook: North Coast Cat Rescue or email: [email protected]. You can donate at: paypal.me/northcoastcatrescue