Laps and Naps, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the care of senior cats, is raising funds to establish a sanctuary. Founded in 2020 by Nancy Gavin, who has a lifelong passion for cats, the organization aims to provide a safe haven for senior felines aged nine and older.
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The nonprofit initially received 501(c)3 status shortly before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led them to consider 2021 as their first full operational year. Since its inception, Laps and Naps has successfully placed over 350 senior cats in appropriate homes and currently cares for about 45 cats. These cats are situated in both foster and sanctuary homes, with fosters waiting for adoption and sanctuary cats being less adoptable due to age, illness, or behavioral issues.
Gavin describes sanctuary homes as a blend of foster care and adoption, where cats remain under the guardianship of Laps and Naps but reside in the same home without being on an adoption list. This arrangement provides a solution for individuals who want to adopt senior cats but are concerned about the associated medical expenses.
The organization eschews cages, prioritizing a more natural environment for the cats. While most foster homes are located in Asheville and Hendersonville, the organization also has placements in Charlotte, Durham, and South Carolina. This geographical spread can complicate efforts to find permanent homes for the cats.
Individuals interested in adopting must complete a vetting process before meeting any cats. While Laps and Naps showcases its cats online, representatives are also present at the Black Mountain Tailgate Market each Saturday.
Currently operating out of Gavin's home office in Black Mountain, Laps and Naps plans to move to Marion, where they have acquired over five acres of land to build a dedicated sanctuary. With architectural designs and necessary permits already completed, the next step is fundraising.
The planned sanctuary will feature multiple rooms for both single and group cat accommodations, each with window views and outdoor access. Gavin emphasizes the importance of fresh air and sunlight for the cats' well-being. Additional facilities will include a medical room for intake and basic procedures, as well as a quarantine area.
At 65, Gavin views the establishment of this sanctuary as a significant life goal. She advocates for the consideration of senior cats, who are often overlooked despite the love they can provide. Gavin encourages potential fosters and adopters to consider senior cats, and she invites financial support from those unable to adopt.
Karrigan Monk is the Swannanoa Valley communities reporter for Black Mountain News, part of the USA TODAY Network.