By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Puppy Kitty NYC, a non-profit based in Queens, is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray and injured cats across New York City. Run by Meagan Licari, the organization focuses on providing care for cats that are sick, homeless, or critically injured—animals that other shelters might turn away. Through their rescue efforts and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program, Puppy Kitty NYC works to reduce the city’s overwhelming feline population while offering these animals a second chance at life.

Puppy Kitty NYC has become a crucial player in addressing the city’s feral cat crisis, rescuing an average of 900 cats annually, with 600 finding loving homes each year. Through a dedicated team of employees and volunteers, the organization has gained a reputation for taking in cats that might not make it through traditional shelters, offering them both medical care and, in many cases, a forever home. While the organization rescues a variety of animals, including dogs and small pets, they are primarily equipped to handle cats, with 90% of their focus dedicated to feline care.

Licari, who was born and raised in Connecticut, founded Puppy Kitty NYC after moving to New York and witnessing the overwhelming number of stray and feral cats on the streets. Having studied veterinary technology at Quinnipiac University, she was drawn back to animal rescue after missing the work and began volunteering. Starting with small tasks like transporting cats to veterinary appointments, Licari quickly rose through the ranks of the organization and became its president.

“The purpose of Puppy Kitty and one of our main focuses is rehabilitating and rescuing homeless street cats. We do TNR, trap, neuter, return, to reduce the population of cats here across New York City,” Licari said. 

The organization’s work is grounded in the principles of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), a method to control the city’s overwhelming feline population. TNR involves trapping feral cats, getting them neutered and vaccinated, and returning them to their original location if it’s safe to do so. This approach helps stop the cycle of uncontrolled breeding and ultimately reduces suffering.

However, the task is not without its challenges. Funding remains a constant hurdle, with the organization relying almost entirely on donations and volunteers. Licari expressed frustration that despite the city’s need for services like those Puppy Kitty NYC provides, government funding is limited, leaving the organization often to fend for itself.

“We’re doing animal control, essentially, but there’s very little government support,” she said. “It’s disappointing that New York City doesn’t support the work that’s being done here. We rely on our community, our donors, and social media to keep the organization afloat.”

Despite these difficulties, the organization has flourished, growing from an operation run out of Licari’s garage to a facility with full-time staff and foster homes throughout the five boroughs. Puppy Kitty NYC currently cares for around 400 cats at any given time, with the cats spread across different locations, including foster homes and over 100 cats in the main facility in Queens.

Collaboration with other organizations is key to the success of Puppy Kitty NYC. The group partners with municipal shelters, including the Animal Care Centers of New York, and several other rescue groups, sharing resources and working together to save as many animals as possible. They also operate a food bank to support smaller rescues with essential supplies.

One of the organization’s most notable achievements was in 2024, when it raised over $1 million in funds and in-kind donations, enabling them to continue their mission and support their food bank.

“Last year, we rescued over 900 cats and found 600 cat’s homes and I think that’s pretty amazing,” Licari said. 

Puppy Kitty NYC has also been at the forefront of advocating for responsible pet ownership in the city. Licari is an outspoken advocate for the city’s ban on the sale of cats and dogs from breeders, a law she supported by testifying at city council meetings.

“Always adopt, not shop,” Licari said. “Breeders are for profit, not for animals. So always go to your local animal shelter or rescue to help out an animal.”

Licari also advises pet owners not to let their cats outside, as it increases the risk of accidents, exposure to diseases like feline leukemia, and interactions with other animals that could lead to injury or illness.

“We do not recommend letting your cat outside ever, especially here in New York City,” Licari said. “There’s a lot of different reasons, but number one, it puts them at risk for cars, getting in fights with other animals, disease, losing them. It’s just not safe.”

The journey for Licari, who has built both the organization and lasting friendships with volunteers and staff, has been one of personal growth. Seeing rescued cats transformed from sick and frightened creatures into healthy, happy animals living in loving homes is a reward she says cannot be measured.

“This is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done,” Licari said, holding back tears. “Watching these cats go from almost dying on the streets to living their best life—it’s amazing. So, if are passionate about animals and are interested in joining and volunteering, I promise it will change your life.” 

For those who want to help, Puppy Kitty NYC encourages volunteering, fostering, and donating. The organization is active on social media, posting updates on rescues, needs, and success stories.

“The more support we get, the more lives we can save,” Licari said. 

You can follow Puppy Kitty NYC on Instagram, TikTok, X, and Facebook at @PuppyKittyNYC to stay up to date and get involved.