08/06/2026
Over the past few months, six tiny kittens have been found at McHaffie's Flea Market. The sixth was found today.
Finding another kitten this morning is what prompted us to write this post. We can't keep treating this as "just another kitten." It's become a pattern, and it's one we all need to work together to break.
Like many communities, we're feeling the effects of the growing cat overpopulation crisis. Local rescues are full, fosters are stretched to their limits, and every new kitten found means another difficult decision.
That's why we're committed to being part of the solution. If these kittens were left at our market, we believe we have a responsibility to help them. We don't expect a rescue to simply take on the burden. We want to raise funds to help with their care and show that we're willing to do our part before asking for help.
But the truth is, the real solution starts long before kittens are left behind.
If you have an unfixed cat, please reach out for help. Spaying and neutering is the single biggest step you can take to prevent more unwanted litters and keep cats from ending up abandoned.
Some of our vendors are involved with local rescues and can point you in the right direction. They can help connect you with organizations that offer affordable spay and neuter programs, explain the process, and help you find the support that's available. Just stop in at the office to inquire about which booths.
To the person, or people, who have left kittens here: if you're reading this, we're not asking you to feel ashamed. We're asking you to let this be the last time. There are people who want to help before a litter is born, not just after.
If you'd like to be part of the solution, you'll find our Paw Path fundraiser inside the market. We originally began raising funds to help five kittens, but with today's discovery, that number has now grown to six. Every $5 donation adds another paw print to our path as we work toward helping these kittens receive the care they deserve and, ultimately, find their way into a rescue. Donations of $20 or more can include your own personalized paw print on the path.
Thank you to everyone who has already donated, shared our fundraiser, or simply stopped to ask how the kittens are doing. Every donation, every share, and every conversation about responsible pet ownership helps. Together, we can give these six kittens a brighter future while helping prevent the next litter from ever needing our help.