Rescue group races to save feral cats before demolition for proposed data center
A local animal rescue group, Friends & Ferals, is racing against a demolition deadline in August to save dozens of stray and feral cats from properties in Salem Township, Luzerne County. These properties are being acquired for a proposed QTS data center project spanning 1700 acres. The group faces significant challenges due to the large number of sick, unsocialized cats and the high costs involved.
Local animal rescue organization, Friends & Ferals, is undertaking its largest challenge yet, attempting to rescue dozens of stray and feral cats from properties in Salem Township, Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. These properties are slated for demolition in August as part of a proposed 1700-acre data center project by QTS.
The volunteer-run nonprofit, which typically focuses on trap-neuter-release programs, initially estimated around 50 cats but now believes the number could be closer to 100 across multiple colonies. The impending demolition means the cats cannot be returned to the site after sterilization, forcing the group to find new housing, primarily barn homes, for the unsocialized animals. Many cats are underweight and sick, requiring expensive veterinary care, with estimated costs for housing, equipment, and treatment ranging from $40,000 to $60,000.
Friends & Ferals leaders expressed that this situation is unprecedented for their two-year-old organization, which typically handles around ten feral cats at a time, not forty or more. QTS released a statement acknowledging the community's concerns for the animals' well-being and confirming their close collaboration with Friends & Ferals to ensure the cats' safe removal and proper care. QTS affirmed its commitment to supporting a responsible resolution and lauded the organization's efforts. Friends & Ferals is appealing for donations, crates, food, foster support, and barn homes to meet the August deadline.