Led by Elizabeth Oliver and fueled by the generosity of the community
By: Johanna Elattar, pictured is Poppy
On Seneca Street, in Hornell, a beautiful Victorian house stands tall, its doors open wide to welcome those in need of a warm refuge. But this is no ordinary abode; it’s the home of Cozy Cats and Kittens, a haven for felines in distress. I recently had the pleasure of visiting this sanctuary and sitting down with its compassionate founder, Elizabeth Oliver.
Upon entering Elizabeth’s remarkable 10,000-square-foot Victorian residence, it’s immediately apparent that this is more than just a home; it’s a sanctuary for cats in need. Since its inception in 2019, Cozy Cats and Kittens has been a beacon of hope for countless felines in the Hornell community and beyond.
However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in January 2020 brought unprecedented challenges. The demand for assistance with cats soared, overwhelming both resources and volunteers. Yet, Elizabeth remained undeterred, continuing her mission to provide solace and care for every cat that crossed their threshold.
At Cozy Cats and Kittens, the commitment to the welfare of felines is evident in every corner. With 6-8 active foster parents and a fluctuating population of approximately 47 cats (sometimes reaching as high as 70), the sanctuary operates tirelessly to ensure each cat receives the attention and care it deserves. Currently, 13 cats reside in foster homes, awaiting their forever families.
Among the sanctuary’s unique features is the “Leukemia Room,” dedicated to cats afflicted with the disease. Here, five volunteers regularly visit to socialize and play with these special felines, providing them with comfort and companionship.
One of the most remarkable tales to emerge from Cozy Cats and Kittens is that of Wyatt, an epileptic cat who arrived at the sanctuary in dire condition. Thin and plagued by constant seizures, Wyatt’s prognosis seemed bleak. However, under Elizabeth’s nurturing care, Wyatt experienced a miraculous turnaround. He gained weight, his seizures ceased, and he eventually found a loving forever home.
For those interested in adopting a cat from Cozy Cats and Kittens, the process is straightforward yet thorough. Prospective adopters must complete an application, provide landlord permission (if renting), furnish the contact details of their veterinarian, and disclose information about existing pets in the household. These measures are in place to safeguard the well-being of the cats under the sanctuary’s care. To initiate the adoption process, individuals can reach out to Elizabeth via private message on Facebook.
Despite their unwavering dedication, Cozy Cats and Kittens relies heavily on the generosity of the community to sustain its operations. Donations, whether through the Amazon Wish List, direct contributions, or the donation of items sold at Old Town Antiques, are crucial in supporting the sanctuary’s efforts. With 100% of proceeds from the antique shop benefiting the rescue, every purchase directly impacts the lives of cats in need. Donated items can be left on the porch at 80 Seneca Street.
Looking ahead, supporters of Cozy Cats and Kittens can mark their calendars for an upcoming fundraiser. In June, a “Penny Social” will be held at the American Legion, featuring basket auctions and opportunities to support the sanctuary. Donations for the event are warmly welcomed, with all proceeds directly benefiting Cozy Cats and Kittens.
In the heart of Hornell, amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, Cozy Cats and Kittens stands as a beacon of compassion and hope for cats in need. Led by Elizabeth Oliver and fueled by the generosity of the community, this sanctuary continues to transform the lives of felines, one purr at a time.
Johanna Elattar is a Hornell NY based writer who covers a range of community, business, and special interest stories. She reaches a local and national audience! Contact her anytime, hauntedhill@yandex.com
