14 Apr 2026
The Cat Protection Society of Victoria (CPSV) is urging Victorians to support its Benevolent Fund which provides urgent financial assistance for emergency veterinary care, keeping cats safe, healthy, and at home with the people who love them.
More than half (55%) of Cat Protection Society Victoria’s (CPSV’s) 2025 intake were surrendered cats.
209 emergency support requests were received by CPSV in 2025, with more than 50 applications already received in early 2026.
130 cats were heartbreakingly turned away due to limited Shelter funds.
The Benevolent Fund exists to ensure families are not forced to surrender or euthanise a beloved cat simply because they cannot afford an unexpected vet bill. As cost-of-living pressures continue to stretch household budgets across Victoria, demand for the Benevolent Fund’s assistance is rising rapidly.
To demonstrate the crucial help that the Benevolent Fund provides during tough financial times, a new CPSV campaign is sharing the story of cat lover Alison and her four-year-old cat, Bandit – her “only child” and constant companion. When Bandit recently fell critically ill with a life- threatening urinary blockage and kidney stones, Alison was faced with an emergency surgery bill exceeding $7,000 which she simply couldn’t afford at the time.
Alison said the Benevolent Fund meant Bandit could receive emergency treatment immediately.
“I remember telling the vets I’d have to let him go. I collapsed into hysterical tears at work,” Alison said.
“I didn’t have thousands in the bank. I had already maxed out my borrowing. I had no choice... Bandit deserved better.
“With surgery, pain relief, and follow-up care fully funded by compassionate donors, Bandit made a full recovery and returned home safely.
“Without the Fund, Bandit would not be here. It was there for us when I was desperate, and I had no other options. I am eternally grateful.”
CPSV Marketing and Communications Manager Rachel Bitzilis said the not-for-profit’s Shelter located in Greensborough is seeing more families reach crisis point.
“Cats are creatures of habit and thrive in familiar environments with the people they know and trust,” Rachel said.
“As cost-of-living pressures continue to put strain on Victorian households, we are seeing more cat owners facing the heartbreaking reality that they cannot afford an unexpected vet bill.
“In 2025 alone, we received 209 requests for help through the Benevolent Fund, but we were only able to support 79 of those cases. That meant 130 cats and their families missed out simply because we didn’t have the resources.
“No one should have to choose between their cat’s life and what they can afford. Community donations allow us to provide urgent treatment and keep cats with the people who love them.”
With demand for the Benevolent Fund continuing to grow, CPSV is encouraging Victorians to donate to help more families access urgent veterinary care. Tax-deductible donations can help provide:
$50–$100: immediate pain relief and stabilisation
$200–$400: diagnostics such as blood tests, x-rays or ultrasounds
$2,000+: Emergency surgery and critical care treatment.
To donate, visit catprotection.com.au/support-us/benevolent-fund.