9 Lives Cat Rescue was founded by a group of 6 ordinary people in April 1996. We took in, cared for, and found homes for stray and unwanted cats and kittens. As time went by it became apparent that not all strays and unwanted pets were young and healthy. Some were elderly, disabled or had chronic medical problems, but these cats were still enjoying life. However, when it came to choosing a new pet, most people wanted a young, healthy cat or kitten and these disadvantaged cats were always at the end of the queue. Rather than resort to euthanasia for these special needs cats, 9 Lives decided to specialise in providing lifelong care for them. We set out to recruit volunteers to care for these cats in their own homes for life. These cats are the 9 Lives cats. We also recruit volunteers to care for the cats temporarily, until a permanent home is found.