Not every animal needs to be a pet
Some cats are too independent for a household. They're not sick, not aggressive, they're simply wild. At SAZ Amsterdam, dozens of these cats are waiting. They deserve better than a life behind glass.
What is a working cat?
A working cat is a cat that doesn't fit in a home, but thrives on a farm, allotment, campsite, riding school or business premises. The cat lives outdoors, on its own terms. You provide the space, the food and a dry sleeping spot. The cat does the rest.
What a working cat is not
- Not a pet you need to cuddle or stroke
- Not a project animal you need to socialise
- Not an obligation, not a contract
What a working cat is
- An independent animal that lives on your premises
- A natural mouse deterrent
- A living being that deserves a chance
- An enrichment, not an obligation
Requirements for location and caretaker
Not every place is suitable for a working cat. Below you'll find what we minimally expect, and why. We're practical, no bureaucracy, but these points matter for the cat's wellbeing.
Location
- Outside the built-up area or in a quiet neighbourhood: no busy traffic within 50 metres
- Farm, riding school, allotment complex, nursery, business premises or large garden with shed
- No flat, no row-house garden, no apartment complex
- Permission from owner or association (allotment complex, business premises)
- No conflict with neighbours: a working cat stays on the premises, but freedom of movement is part of the deal
Settling-in space (the shelter)
- Enclosed space: barn, stable, greenhouse, garage, storage room (minimum 4-6 m²)
- Wind- and rainproof, no drafts, no mould
- Sufficient ventilation and daylight
- Room for a litter box, food and water bowl, hiding spot (cardboard box or sleeping basket)
- No other animals in the same space during the settling-in period
- Accessible for you (daily feeding, litter cleaning) but not for other people
- Lockable: the cat stays inside for a minimum of 4 weeks, sometimes longer
You as caretaker
- Available for at least one year for this role: working cats are a multi-year commitment
- Daily (or at least routinely) present at the location
- Reachable by phone for SAZ, also during holidays, or have a substitute arranged
- Willing to love a cat without expecting cuddles in return
- Understands that a working cat sometimes ranges far and isn't always visible
- No expectation of gratitude, obedience or contact
How does it work?
You provide
- An enclosed settling-in space (see requirements above) for at least 4 weeks
- Daily food and fresh water, also after release, in a fixed spot
- A dry, sheltered sleeping spot that remains accessible at all times
- A phone call if the cat seems ill, gets injured or fails to show up for more than 48 hours
- Time: about 10-15 minutes a day for feeding and checking, plus follow-up when something's up
We take care of
- Every cat is already neutered, vaccinated, microchipped and dewormed
- A location check, not a heavy inspection, a practical visit
- Advice on the settling-in period and release
- A dedicated point of contact for questions
- Veterinary care if the cat gets sick or injured
- Taking the cat back if it doesn't work out, always, no questions asked
What it costs you: food. That's it. We handle the rest.
How does placement work?
Register
You sign up through the form. We'll get in touch for an introduction.
Location visit
A volunteer comes to check if the location is suitable. No bureaucracy, a practical check.
Matching
We choose a cat that fits your situation. One cat, or several if you have the space.
Settling-in period
The cat stays in an enclosed space on your premises (see requirements). Minimum 4 weeks, usually 4-6 weeks, sometimes longer. During this period the cat learns this is its new base and gets used to the sounds and smells. SAZ decides together with the caretaker when the cat can go outside, not earlier.
Release
The door opens at a quiet moment. The cat explores the area at its own pace: sometimes cautiously after a few days, sometimes immediately. Comes back for food at the fixed spot. Finds its sleeping spots. Food remains available at the same place, always.
Aftercare
We call you after 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month. And after that, we remain available. Always.
Frequently asked questions
Register as a caretaker
No space but still want to help?
You can also help by sponsoring a working cat or sharing this with someone who has the space. Do you know someone with a farm or premises?