Where We Started
MEOW Foundation started way back in 2000, when 11 dedicated volunteers came together with a shared concern for stray and abandoned cats facing euthanasia in Calgary. Their vision was clear: a shelter with a no-kill policy, setting the standard for humane programs and cat behaviour expertise.
It’s been years of hard work, and those years work have paid off as MEOW has become an organization of firsts:
- One of the first no-kill groups for cats
- The first year-round continuous Spay Neuter Assistance Program
- The first Trap Neuter Return program in Calgary
- The first dedicated feline only Adoption Centre
- The first Capacity for Care model
Rescue and Adoption
Over the past 25 years, every cat that has come through the doors of our Adoption Centre has received personalized, comprehensive medical care; complete with thorough health assessments, vaccinations, medications, and any necessary surgical procedures. We do everything we can to ensure each one is healthy, thriving, and ready to begin their next chapter.
Each year, hundreds of cats arrive at MEOW, every one of them unique, with their own story and spirit. We’re honoured to be a part of their journey to finding the loving, forever homes they deserve.
Spay Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP)
Did you know MEOW Foundation launched Calgary’s first year-round, continuous Spay Neuter Assistance Program (SNAP)? The program’s inception in 2007 marked a groundbreaking step in animal welfare, and it remains a success to this day.
Spaying or neutering your pet is a vital part of responsible pet ownership, and through SNAP, MEOW helps make that possible for everyone. By subsidizing the cost of feline spay and neuter surgeries for low-income Calgarians, we’re not only supporting pet owners—we’re actively reducing the number of unwanted litters and helping create a healthier, more compassionate community for cats.
Trap Neuter Return (TNR)
MEOW Foundation’s Trap Neuter Return (TNR) program assists feral Calgary cats who do not have the socialization skills necessary for adoption into homes. The first of its kind in Calgary, cats in this program are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, microchipped and returned to their neighbourhoods. Trained community caregivers provide them with a stable source of food, water and shelter.
On average, female cats have three litters each year. Kittens born to feral cats are not spayed or neutered, which further increases the homeless cat population. Our TNR program humanely controls and reduces Calgary’s feral cat population, while providing these cats with the essentials necessary for survival outdoors.
MEOW Charity Thrift Shop & Markets
From the start, garage sales have been an essential part of MEOW Foundation’s fundraising efforts, so much so that they led directly to opening our first thrift storefront. In May 2019, the MEOW Charity Thrift Shop officially opened its doors and has since become wildly successful.
Last year, we expanded with a second location in the south, and sales continue to support our cats in care every day.
We also love being out in the community and attending local markets, as it gives us a chance to connect face-to-face, share our story, and showcase how MEOW actively helps cats in Calgary. Visitors can shop MEOW-branded merchandise and pick up charming, homemade cat toys crafted by our talented volunteers.
Regal Cat Cafe
Since 2017, Regal Cat Café has been a cozy temporary home for adoptable MEOW Foundation cats. In June 2022, MEOW officially took over ownership and it’s been an excellent way to create additional revenue for the organization and also showcase MEOW cats to our community.
The Kitty Kingdom at the café has facilitated the adoption of over 1,000 cats since its establishment.
Located in the heart of Kensington, the café offers more than just cats. Enjoy locally roasted Chronicle Coffee, Teariffic teas, and sweet treats from Calgary favourites like Canela, Crave Cupcakes, and Pretty Sweet Bakeshop.
Book a kitty visit or join us for fun events, such as cat yoga, paint nights, and photography workshops. Whether you’re there for a cuddle or a cappuccino, you’re helping cats in need, and that’s the perfect combo.
Volunteer Power
Without the dedication of our volunteers, MEOW Foundation wouldn’t have been able to help nearly as many cats. Each year, countless hours are generously given by our volunteers whether it’s at our Adoption Centre, in our thrift shops, through fostering, or creating beautiful handmade items as part of our crafting team.
Each volunteer, and every hour they give, plays a vital role in ensuring MEOW’s mission and vision continue to grow and thrive.
We are truly thankful to have such a compassionate and committed volunteer community. Because of you, MEOW Foundation can continue making a difference for the next 25 years and beyond.
Our Successes
MEOW Foundation may have started out small, but we have grown so much and have been able to help ensure more cats are cared for in Calgary. In the last 25 years, we have had over 18,000 adoptions and have been able to help over 50,000 cats.
Here’s to many more years to come helping cats and the people who love them!