Rogue Valley Volunteer Works to Trap, Vaccinate Feral Cats Amid Rising Animal Care Costs
MEDFORD, Ore. – As the cost of veterinary care continues to climb, a local volunteer in the Rogue Valley is taking it upon herself to care for growing feral cat colonies, relying on community support and her own resourcefulness. Diana Moissant, known as @Diana.helps.cats on TikTok, independently traps, deworms, and vaccinates cats, working to control populations and improve feline welfare.
Moissant isn’t affiliated with any formal organization, but has become a key figure in local cat rescue efforts. “I’m not doing anything wrong. I have receipts,” she stated, emphasizing her meticulous record-keeping. She finds assistance from fellow cat enthusiasts, like Christopher Headrick, who shares a lifelong connection with felines.
On a recent morning, Moissant and Headrick attempted to trap kittens for deworming and vaccination, with the ultimate goal of finding them permanent homes. “Then hopefully find them a forever home,” Headrick said.
Their efforts weren’t immediately successful. While they caught a cat in a trap set in tall grass, it was an adult already spayed – identified by a small ear clip indicating previous intervention. After a brief, hissing encounter, the cat was released. Moissant and Headrick plan to continue their work, hoping to reach the kittens before the onset of winter.
The rising costs of animal care are a meaningful challenge for both formal rescues and autonomous volunteers like Moissant. This work highlights the dedication of individuals stepping in to address the needs of vulnerable animal populations in the Rogue Valley.
Justin Higginbottom is a reporter with Jefferson Public Radio. This story comes to you from the Northwest News Network, a collaboration between public media organizations in Oregon and Washington. It is part of OPB’s broader effort to ensure that everyone in our region has access to quality journalism that informs,entertains and enriches their lives. To learn more, visit OPB’s journalism partnerships page.
