Have you noticed any cats roaming around your neighborhood? While there is a chance they are lost and looking for home, they may just be community cats out for an afternoon stroll.
Due to the large population of unaltered, free-roaming cats in Santa Barbara County, it's not always easy to tell when a cat is in need of help. There have also been many instances of healthy, adoptable community cats being needlessly euthanized—and that is what ASAP Cats seeks to fix.
Since 1989, ASAP's primary goal is to help cats. From monthly adoption events (and yard sales!) to a mobile spay/neuter clinic that alters cats on the go, ASAP has been a pillar of animal welfare in Santa Barbara for decades, advocating and assisting cats through fundraising, adoption services, cat-centric programs, and education.
Operated by a small staff and a dedicated team of volunteers, ASAP is more than a shelter; their TinyLions™ behavior program helps feral kittens become adoption-ready; their Working Cats program provides additional pathways for cats that require alternate placement; their robust Foster network provides short- and long-term stays for dozens of cats in ASAP's care, freeing up critical space in the shelter; and the list goes on.
Neonatal kitten training, volunteer opportunities, veterinary internships—ASAP Cats supports cats and pet families in a variety of ways, working to strengthen the bond between humans and felines, especially regarding the ones in our community.
“Whatever animals I come across, whatever I see, knowing I can help and give them something they need…it feels good when you can do something," says Amy Smith, ASAP's community cats program director for North County.
Monitoring over a dozen community cat colonies, Amy oversees a team of ASAP feeders and trappers who provide food for over 400 hungry cats every day. ASAP took on the responsibility of caring for these colonies following a merge with Catalyst for Cats in early 2025, emboldening their efforts to serve the cats of Santa Barbara County. “They need an advocate,” Amy says. “Animals are unconditional and present, so if anything, they need extra love.”
Created by a small group of cat lovers wanting to do some good, the unwavering support and advocacy for cats from ASAP has grown exponentially in the 37 years since its inception.
“None of this would be possible without the incredible dedication of our community,” says Executive Director Jessica Wiebe. “Together, we’re building a world where every cat has the chance to live, love, and thrive.”
Animals are unconditional and present, so if anything, they need extra love.