The office of King County Executive, Dow Constantine, released a press release yesterday promoting the efforts of Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC). RASKC has a solution for residents plagues by rats and mice - barn cats.

According to the press release, these outdoor felines are a totally natural, organic rodent control method. All they generally need is shelter, such as that provided by a barn, a warm place to sleep, fresh water and food. Most of these mousers and ratters are feral or semi-tame, and are available now at the RASKC shelter.

“Barn cats are nearly invisible,” said Glynis Frederiksen, operations manager for the shelter. “Except for the occasional dead mouse or rat they leave behind, they hide in the shadows and you’ll rarely see any evidence of them.”

RASKC places barn cats in small colonies, usually in groups of four. All of the cats have been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, ear-tipped for identification, and have been tested for feline diseases. There is no charge for this service, and volunteers are available to deliver and assist with placing your barn cats.

If you have problems with mice or rats, and would like to get some barn cats, email barncatsrus@gmail.com or call Regional Animal Services of King County at 206-296-7387.
For more information, visit www.kingcounty.gov/pets.