Generated by Rank Math SEO, this is an llms.txt file designed to help LLMs better understand and index this website.

# SpayMart

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://spaymart.org/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Thanks to Our Give NOLA Day Matching Sponsors](https://spaymart.org/1213-2/): May 2026 was an extraordinary month for SpayMart, and I have spent much of it feeling deeply grateful for this community and everything we accomplish together.
- [Hidden Dangers at Home: Protecting Your Pets During National Animal Poison Prevention Week](https://spaymart.org/hidden-dangers-at-home-protecting-your-pets-during-national-animal-poison-prevention-week/): When we think about keeping our pets safe, most of us picture obvious dangers: cleaning chemicals under the sink, pesticides in the yard, or foods like chocolate and grapes.
- [The First Two Weeks After Adoption: Helping Your New Cat Feel Safe](https://spaymart.org/first-two-weeks/): Bringing home a new cat is exciting, but for the cat, it can be overwhelming.
- [The Joy of Fostering: How Opening Your Home Saves Lives and Fills Your Heart](https://spaymart.org/the-joy-of-fostering/): Fostering a cat or kitten is one of the most powerful and joyful ways you can make a difference in animal welfare.
- [A Holiday Message from Our Founder](https://spaymart.org/holiday-message-2025/): Happy Holidays!
- [Why TNR Matters](https://spaymart.org/why-tnr-matters/): At SpayMart, we believe every cat deserves a chance, not just the ones who purr in our laps, but also the ones who watch from the shadows.
- [Why Microchipping Matters: One Small Step That Can Save a Life](https://spaymart.org/why-microchipping-matters/): They slip through a door left ajar. They jump a fence in a moment of panic. They run from the sound of fireworks or a thunderstorm. Every day, beloved pets go missing, confused, frightened, and far from the people who love them.
- [Why Heartworm Prevention Is a Lifesaver, Especially in the South](https://spaymart.org/heartworm/): In Louisiana and Mississippi, heartworm disease isn’t just a risk, it’s a guarantee. The hot, humid climate creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, and where there are mosquitoes, there’s heartworm.
- [How to Introduce a New Dog to Your Cat (and Vice Versa)](https://spaymart.org/dog-cat-introductions/): A guide to creating a peaceful multi-species household
- [What If They Were Lost? Preventing the Unthinkable – and Getting Them Home if It Happens](https://spaymart.org/pet-loss-tips/): Imagine this:
- [Saved Before the Storm Hit](https://spaymart.org/saved-before-the-storm-hit/): These two little ones came into our pop-up spay/neuter clinic just before the big snowstorm of January 2025, and were too sick to have surgery. They had respiratory and eye infections and had been living in a grocery store parking lot! Of course we took them in, and thanks to the generous support of Banfield Foundation, were able to give them the medical care they needed. Then we found them loving new homes! Have a good life, Thomas and Simone. And thank you, Banfield Foundation, for your support of so many animals threatened by New Orleans' harsh winter storm.
- [Understanding FIV: What It Is, and Why It Shouldn’t Be a Dealbreaker](https://spaymart.org/understanding-fiv/): At SpayMart, we’ve met countless cats who are loving, playful, and full of life, who also happen to be FIV-positive. And time and again, we’ve seen how misunderstanding this diagnosis can stand in the way of adoption, even when the cat is otherwise healthy and thriving.
- [What Senior Cats Need Most – and How You Can Help](https://spaymart.org/senior-cats/): As cats age, their needs change, but their capacity for love, connection, and comfort remains as strong as ever. At SpayMart, we believe that senior cats deserve just as much attention, care, and compassion as kittens. And in many ways, they offer something even more special: quiet companionship, deep gratitude, and an unmatched sense of calm.
- [With gratitude to our GiveNOLA Day Matching Sponsors!](https://spaymart.org/with-gratitude-to-our-givenola-day-matching-sponsors/): All of us at SpayMart want to thank the amazing inviduals and businesses who offered matches to inspire our supporters to donate to our GiveNOLA Day campaign! With heartfelt gratitude we acknowledge:
- [A Guardian Angel for the Animals](https://spaymart.org/a-guardian-angel-for-the-animals/): We’re proud to recognize one of our Guardian Angel Sponsors, Susan Geoghegan State Farm Insurance in Metairie, LA.
- [SpayMart Issues Urgent Plea Ahead of GiveNOLA Day After Losing Lifeline Adoption Center](https://spaymart.org/spaymart-issues-urgent-plea-ahead-of-givenola-day-after-losing-lifeline-adoption-center/): In a devastating blow to its mission, SpayMart has been forced to close its beloved thrift store and cat adoption center at Lafreniere Plaza—an anchor of support for more than a decade. Now, as GiveNOLA Day approaches on Tuesday, May 6, SpayMart is issuing an urgent call to action: help us continue saving lives.
- [From the Streets to Safety: Roseanna’s Story](https://spaymart.org/roseanna/): For 14 long years, Roseanna survived on the streets. But her strength wasn’t enough to protect her from cruelty. Someone shot her, shattering every bone in her back leg. No one knows how long she dragged it behind her, struggling just to reach the food bowl and fight for scraps.
- [Protect Your Cats from Bird Flu](https://spaymart.org/protect-your-cats-from-bird-flu/): Avian influenza is a real risk to cats across the U.S., including in the Greater New Orleans area, cautions local animal welfare organization SpayMart.
- [Protecting Your Pets When Temperatures Drop in New Orleans: A Guide from SpayMart](https://spaymart.org/cold-weather/): New Orleans isn't exactly known for its frigid winters, but when the temperature drops and those rare snowflakes start to fall, it's crucial to know how to keep our furry friends safe and warm. At SpayMart, we're dedicated to the well-being of all animals, so we've compiled this guide to help you protect your pets during unexpected cold snaps.
- [A Year-End Message from our Founder: 2024](https://spaymart.org/a-year-end-message-from-our-founder-2024/): As this special time of year approaches, we at SpayMart would like to wish you the merriest of holidays and all good things in the coming year!
- [Are Laser Pointers a Hidden Danger for Your Cat?](https://spaymart.org/are-laser-pointers-a-hidden-danger-for-your-cat/): At SpayMart, we're dedicated to the well-being of every cat who comes through our doors. That's why we want to shed light on a popular cat toy that can sometimes do more harm than good: the laser pointer.
- [Giving Animals a Reason to Be Thankful: How You Can Help This Holiday Season](https://spaymart.org/giving-animals-a-reason-to-be-thankful-how-you-can-help-this-holiday-season/): As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect time to reflect on gratitude—not just for the blessings in our own lives but for the difference we can make in the lives of others, including animals in need. At SpayMart, we’re endlessly grateful for our incredible supporters, adopters, volunteers, donors, and foster caregivers who help give homeless pets the second chances they deserve. This Thanksgiving, we want to celebrate you and share how you can create even more reasons for animals to be thankful.
- [Senior Cat Adoption Program Combats Loneliness in New Orleans](https://spaymart.org/senior-cat-adoption-program-combats-loneliness-in-new-orleans/): New Orleans, LA –As reported by the National Institute on Aging, many seniors struggle with feelings of loneliness and isolation. New Orleans animal welfare organization SpayMart has a cure for that: adopt a senior cat.
- [Why a Senior Pet Might Be Your Perfect Match](https://spaymart.org/why-a-senior-pet-might-be-your-perfect-match/): November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month, a time to celebrate the joys of welcoming an older animal companion into your life. While playful puppies and energetic kittens often steal the spotlight, senior pets offer unique rewards and can be the perfect fit for many individuals and families.
- [Shy cats can be the best cats! Here’s why](https://spaymart.org/shy-cats/): Considering adopting a shy cat? Learn how to understand and care for a shy feline companion and discover the unique rewards they offer.
- [Overcoming the Fear of Fostering: Open Your Home, Open Your Heart](https://spaymart.org/overcoming-the-fear-of-fostering-open-your-home-open-your-heart/): Fostering a pet can be a life-changing experience for both you and the feline in need. Yet, many hesitate to take that first step, worried about the commitment, costs, or potential challenges. At SpayMart, we're here to address those fears and show you how fostering can be a rewarding and enriching experience.
- [How to Protect Your Pets When Hurricanes Threaten](https://spaymart.org/how-to-protect-your-pets-when-hurricanes-threaten/): In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans learned firsthand the devastating impact natural disasters can have on both people and animals. Born out of that experience, SpayMart has been dedicated to helping pets and their owners weather storms of all kinds ever since. As hurricane season approaches, we want to share some essential tips to help you prepare and protect your four-legged family members.
- [The Best Cat Toys and Enrichment Activities](https://spaymart.org/the-best-cat-toys-and-enrichment-activities/): With so many cats and kittens in our shelter, adoption centers, and foster homes, we understand that keeping our feline friends mentally and physically stimulated is essential for their overall well-being. Whether you're a new cat owner or a seasoned cat enthusiast, finding the right toys and activities can make a significant difference in your cat's happiness and health. Here are some of the best cat toys and enrichment activities to keep your kitty entertained and engaged.
- [How to Create a Cat First Aid Kit](https://spaymart.org/how-to-create-a-cat-first-aid-kit/): Having a cat first aid kit on hand is essential for pet owners. It can help you manage minor injuries, illnesses, and emergencies until you can get your cat to the veterinarian. Here’s a comprehensive guide to creating a cat first aid kit to ensure you’re prepared for any situation.
- [SPAYMART RECEIVES $50,000 GRANT FROM PETSMART CHARITIES TO HELP MORE ADOPTABLE PETS FIND FAMILIES IN NEW ORLEANS](https://spaymart.org/spaymart-receives-50000-grant-from-petsmart-charities-to-help-more-adoptable-pets-find-families-in-new-orleans/): – March 27, 2024 – SpayMart has received a $50,000 grant from PetSmart Charities® to help prepare more pets in the greater New Orleans area for adoption. Some four million pets find themselves in U.S. shelters each year.
- [SpayMart’s Joan Avent Honored for Record Kitten Adoptions](https://spaymart.org/spaymarts-joan-avent-honored-for-record-kitten-adoptions/): Joan Avent, the dedicated head of SpayMart's Kitten Foster Program, was recognized with a prestigious award from PetSmart, honoring her achievement of facilitating nearly 700 kitten adoptions last year.
- [The Essential Guide to Kitten-Proofing Your Home](https://spaymart.org/the-essential-guide-to-kitten-proofing-your-home/): Adopting a kitten is a joyous occasion, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring your home is a safe and welcoming space for your new little friend. Kitten-proofing is crucial, as kittens are naturally curious and love to explore their new environment, often getting into places they shouldn’t. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare your home for its newest addition.
- [Why SpayMart Opposes Declawing](https://spaymart.org/why-spaymart-opposes-declawing/): We recently shared the story of Miss Pearl, an 18-year-old cat who we helped get needed surgery to correct a botched declaw procedure that had been done when she was young. The nails had regrown inside her paws, and were causing her terrible pain. Two of them had actually burst through the skin. We can't even imagine how she must have been suffering for years.
- [Expert Tips for Your Cat’s Dental Health](https://spaymart.org/expert-tips-for-your-cats-dental-health/): Did you know that just like humans, cats can suffer from dental diseases and issues that can affect their overall health and wellbeing?
- [Welcoming Your New Feline Friend: Understanding and Nurturing Their Adjustment Period](https://spaymart.org/welcoming-your-new-feline-friend-understanding-and-nurturing-their-adjustment-period/): We all want our new cat to feel welcome and at home with us. But this significant change can be overwhelming for our furry friends. As a new cat parent, understanding and supporting your cat through the decompression period is crucial. Here are some tips on how to create a comforting environment for your newly adopted cat to thrive.
- [Navigating the Peace: Strategies to Prevent Intercat Aggression](https://spaymart.org/navigating-the-peace-strategies-to-prevent-intercat-aggression/): With these strategies, you can help ensure your cats live together in harmony, creating a happier home for everyone.
- [7 Reasons to Give Your Cat an Indoor Life](https://spaymart.org/7-reasons-to-give-your-cat-an-indoor-life/): Not sure about the indoor cat life? Here are seven key factors to consider.
- [5 Reasons Behind the Feline Fascination with Boxes](https://spaymart.org/5-reasons-behind-the-feline-fascination-with-boxes/): Cats and boxes share an iconic and endearing relationship. This simple cardboard structure is not just a whimsical cat preference but is deeply rooted in feline psychology and behavior. Understanding this connection can significantly enhance the wellbeing of our feline companions.
- [SpayMart Looks Back at 2023](https://spaymart.org/spaymart-looks-back/): A big hello and happy holidays from SpayMart to all our wonderful friends!
- [7 Happy Holiday Tips for Cats](https://spaymart.org/7-happy-holiday-tips-for-cats/): As the holiday season approaches, homes are filled with joy, decorations, and the spirit of Christmas. While this is a time for family, fun, and festivities, it’s also important to remember the safety of our feline friends. Cats are curious creatures, and the holiday season presents a whole new world of temptations for them. Here are some essential tips to ensure your cat’s safety during this festive period.
- [SpayMart Holiday Food Drive](https://spaymart.org/spaymart-holiday-food-drive/): SpayMart is ringing in the holiday season with a Food Drive for our feline friends. Our shelves are getting bare, and we're calling on the generous hearts in our community to help stock up on our cats' and kittens' favorite meals.
- [SPAYMART RECEIVES $45,000 GRANT FROM PETSMART CHARITIES® TO HELP MORE HOMELESS PETS FIND HOMES IN NEW ORLEANS](https://spaymart.org/spaymart-receives-45000-grant-from-petsmart-charities-to-help-more-homeless-pets-find-homes-in-new-orleans/): SpayMart helped ease the impact of a veterinary shortage in animal shelters by offering pop-up spay/neuter clinics and sterilizing more than 1,000 pets.
- [Tips: Keeping Cats Safe at Halloween](https://spaymart.org/keeping-cats-safe-at-halloween/): Halloween is a festive time for many, filled with spooky decorations, candy, costumes, and fun-filled activities. But for our feline friends, it can be a time of stress and potential danger. Keeping cats safe during this holiday season requires some planning and awareness. Here are some guidelines to ensure that your cat has a safe and uneventful Halloween:
- [What to Do if You Find a Litter of Kittens](https://spaymart.org/what-to-do-if-you-find-a-litter-of-kittens/): If you stumble upon a litter of kittens, your first instinct might be to immediately bring them to the nearest animal shelter. Here's what to do instead.
- [Introducing a New Cat to Your Feline Family](https://spaymart.org/introducing-a-new-cat-to-your-feline-family/): Bringing a new cat into a home with established feline residents can be a joyous occasion, but it also presents challenges. The key to a smooth transition is patience and a systematic approach. Here's a guide to help you introduce a new cat to your existing feline family members.
- [Medical Causes for Litter Box Avoidance in Cats](https://spaymart.org/medical-causes-for-litter-box-avoidance-in-cats/): A variety of health conditions can be the primary culprits behind a cat's sudden change in litter box habits.
- [SpayMart Spay/Neuters Local Cats](https://spaymart.org/spaymart-pitches-in-to-spay-neuter-cats-in-local-shelters/): One animal welfare organization, SpayMart, is helping curtail the number of unwanted kittens in shelters with a spay/neuter campaign.
- [Don’t Declaw Your Cat. Do This Instead](https://spaymart.org/dont-declaw-your-cat-do-this-instead/): It's crucial to use more compassionate alternatives to declawing that respect our feline friends' natural behaviors while protecting our homes and furniture.
- [Study: Cats Who Urinate Outside Box in Shelters Usually Fine in Homes](https://spaymart.org/litter-box-study/): Cats who urinate outside the litter box face challenges getting adopted or staying in shelters. In the past, shelters often refused to take in these cats or chose to euthanize them without further help. Should adopters hesitate before bringing one of these cats home? Probably not, according to a recent study.
- [New Orleans Magazine Features SpayMart](https://spaymart.org/lynn-chiche-of-spaymart-is-featured-in-the-new-orleans-magazine/): New Orleans Magazine is the guide to the dining, entertainment, lifestyle, culture, and people of New Orleans from the trusted editors of New Orleans Magazine, New Orleans Home, New Orleans Bride, and St. Charles Avenue. Co-founder Lynn Chiche and SpayMart were featured in the July 2022 issue. Click the below link to read more!
- [Saving Kittens ‘Born on the Bayou’](https://spaymart.org/bayou-kitten-transport/): New Orleans, La. – Kittens in high-risk animal shelters in Louisiana and Mississippi will soon be heading for a happy new life thanks to a partnership between New Orleans animal welfare organization SpayMart and three Florida shelters.
- [Times-Picayune: SpayMart Joins in GiveNOLA Day](https://spaymart.org/times-picayune-spaymart-joins-in-givenola-day/): GiveNOLA Day is a 24-hour fundraising marathon that raises money for over 900 New Orleans-area nonprofits. The event, held Tuesday, May 4, 2021, set a new record, getting about $8.1 million in donations. SpayMart, one of the nonprofits taking part in the event, operates a thrift store that supports the organization's work caring for and finding homes for cats all over the metro area. Read more...

## Pages
- [Document Retention and Destruction Policy](https://spaymart.org/contact-us/document-retention-and-destruction-policy/): SpayMart maintains a formal Document Retention and Destruction Policy to ensure that organizational records are properly protected, retained, and securely disposed of in accordance with applicable legal, financial, operational, and regulatory requirements.
- [Financials](https://spaymart.org/financials/): To request a printed version of the Annual Report, please contact us at info@spaymart.org
- [Cat Bio Writer](https://spaymart.org/cat-bio-writer/): Create a complete adoption bio, AI prompt, social media post, and adoption match profile from one guided form.
- [After Hours and Emergency Resources](https://spaymart.org/emergency-resources/): 24 HOUR EMERGENCY CLINICS:
- [Make a Will. Make a Difference.](https://spaymart.org/wills/): Creating a will isn’t just about assets - it’s about values. By including a gift to SpayMart, you ensure that your love for animals lives on. It's one of the most meaningful ways to leave a legacy that reflects your compassion. And the best part? It’s easier than you might think.
- [](https://spaymart.org/1006-2/): Download brochure (PDF)
- [2026 Pop-up Spay/Neuter Clinic Dates](https://spaymart.org/pop-up-dates/): The dates for our 2026 pop-up spay/neuter clinics will be announced early in the new year. Please check back.
- [Form](https://spaymart.org/form/)
- [SpayMart Thrift Store & Adoption Center](https://spaymart.org/thrift/): Come be charmed by our adoptable cats and browse our gifts, furniture, dishware, collectibles, and more!
- [Adoption Application](https://spaymart.org/adoption-application/): Cat Adoption Application ver: 2023/11/16
- [Privacy Policy](https://spaymart.org/privacy-policy/): Our website address is: https://spaymart.org.
- [Adoption Resources](https://spaymart.org/adoption-resources-2/): Adoption Resources Pet-Friendly Housing Helpful Information via Apartmentguide.com (Louisiana) via Apartments.com (New Orleans area) via Rent.com (New Orleans area) via Trulia.com (New Orleans Area) via Zillow.com (New Orleans area) 9 Ways to Welcome Your New Cat (PDF)
Tips for the First 30 Days of Cat Adoption (PDF)
Cats & Kids (PDF)
Exercising With Your Cat (PDF)
- [Foster](https://spaymart.org/foster-2/): Foster Fostering a cat while he or she waits for adoption may be the most important thing you can do to help them. Why? Being in foster is always less stressful than being in a shelter for a cat.
Cats who used to have a home will feel more comfortable in a home environment.
Foster caregivers are able to give us more in-depth information about a cat’s personality, allowing us to make a better adoption match.
Cats in need of special care will be able to get it from fosters willing to take on a special needs cat.
Temporary fostering allows people to have the joy of a cat in their life even if they can’t make a longterm committment.
People who foster can have feline companionship while we pay the bills.
Foster caregivers have first right to adopt the pet they’re fostering if they choose. FOSTER A PET TODAY!
- [Volunteer](https://spaymart.org/volunteer/): There are many volunteer opportunities, for both individuals and groups, ranging from minor tasks such as transporting a cat to and from a vet appointment to helping with our database, office work, and fundraising. Whatever the skill set, all volunteers share one thing – the desire to make a difference.
- [Adoption](https://spaymart.org/adoption/): Your annual gift helps us rescue, heal, and rehome cats in need. Learn more and join now »
- [SpayMart Foster Program](https://spaymart.org/spaymart-foster-program/): Provides veterinary services, including spay/neuter and adoption assistance, as incentive for the public to foster homeless, unwanted kittens, who would otherwise be left to die on our streets or relinquished to animal control. Over 600 kittens are tamed and placed in homes annually by this all volunteer-based team.
- [Seniors for Seniors](https://spaymart.org/seniors-for-seniors-2/): Adoption fees for seniors are reduced to $100 and SpayMart’s Seniors for Seniors Program pairs senior cats (7 years and older) with senior humans (68 years and older) for a match that benefits both!
- [Felicity Fund](https://spaymart.org/felicity-fund/): SpayMart’s Felicity Veterinary Fund provides financial support for pet owners facing veterinary crises without the ability to pay. The fund is maintained via donations and grants, and SpayMart reviews applications for assistance, providing support according to need. The Felicity Veterinary Fund helps keep pets in homes and out of shelters and helps families care for their pets despite challenging circumstances.
- [Need Help](https://spaymart.org/need-help/): Sometimes life throws us a curve, and it can be a struggle to get vet care, food, supplies, or even to keep your pet. We wish SpayMart could help every needy pet parent, but our resources are limited. However, we do want to help you find the assistance you need to keep your pet healthy and happy in your loving home, or find a new home if that is the best solution for the challenges your family is facing.
- [Our Locations](https://spaymart.org/our-locations/): PetSmart #1023Adult cats and kittens from the SpayMart Kitten Foster Program1000 S Clearview PkwyNew Orleans, LA 70123TUE-SAT 10:30 am-5 pm
- [Mission & Vision](https://spaymart.org/mission-vision/): SpayMart’s Mission & Vision page explains the strategy behind its New Orleans spay/neuter clinics, adoption centers, and volunteer-powered rescues.
- [Our Team](https://spaymart.org/our-team/): SpayMart relies on an enthusiastic community of volunteers for day-to-day operations, including stocking and maintaining our thrift shop, managing our PetSmart adoption center, trapping and transporting animals, and providing support where it’s needed.
- [Newsroom](https://spaymart.org/newsroom/): May 28, 2026 | News
- [Contact Us](https://spaymart.org/contact-us/): We’re located at 8911 Jefferson Highway in River Ridge, right next door to Louie's River Ridge Hardware. We’re open Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm.
- [SpayMart Newsletter Signup](https://spaymart.org/newsletter-signup/): Sign up now to keep up with all the latest news from SpayMart!
- [Home](https://spaymart.org/): SpayMart is New Orleans’ nonprofit cat rescue offering adoption, fostering, and volunteer pathways. The homepage highlights urgent needs and the 500+ Club funding life-saving work.