NEWS-REVIEW FILE PHOTO | Kent Animal Shelter is running a spay promotion this month.

Kent Animal Shelter is trying to “Beat the Heat” this spring with a new special rate for spaying cats as a way to reduce the number of homeless cats, the shelter announced.

All through February, cats can be spayed at the shelter’s clinic for $20. The program, sponsored by animal non-profit group PetSmart Charities, hopes to spay 240 animals before the peak of “kitten season,” when shelters see more kittens than usual due to cats going into heat.

“Many people don’t know that female cats can have as many as three litters a year, and kittens can breed as young as four months old,” said Pamela Green, Executive Director of Kent Animal Shelter. “It’s our goal to bring female cats in before they go into heat and become pregnant.”

The shelter said spaying and neutering is one of the most effective ways to reduce the homeless pet population, and is medically beneficial for kittens as young as eight to 10 weeks old, reducing the risk of reproductive cancers and infections.

The special rate is available to all residents of Long Island. Pet owners must mention the “Beat the Heat” promotion when they schedule their appointment. The promotion is based on availability.

Visit Kent’s website or call the shelter’s clinic at (631) 727-7797 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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