Operation Meow: Community Cat Support

Three leading animal welfare organizations—Española Humane, Santa Fe Animal Shelter & Humane Society, and Felines & Friends New Mexico—have joined forces to launch Operation Meow, a collaborative mission supporting the unsung heroes who care for community cat colonies across Northern New Mexico.

Why Operation Meow Matters

Every day, volunteer caretakers provide food, water, and compassion to community cats (sometimes called feral cats). Many cover expenses out of their own pockets to keep these cats fed, healthy, and safe. Operation Meow helps ease that burden by collecting and distributing donated cat food directly to the people who need it most.

“Community cats are part of the fabric of Northern New Mexico, and the people who care for them are everyday heroes. Through Operation Meow, we can support both the cats and their caretakers with the resources they need.”

How You Can Help

There are many ways to make a difference:

  • Shop Online
    Contribute through our Chewy Wish List or Amazon Wish List.
  • Drop Off Donations
    Bring cat food donations to one of our collection sites:

    • Española Humane: 108 Hamm Pkwy, Española, NM
    • Santa Fe Animal Shelter’s Cat Resale Store: 2570 Camino Entrada, Santa Fe, NM
    • Santa Fe Cats / Felines & Friends NM: Papa Murphy’s, 3201 Zafarano Drive (Next to Sprouts), Santa Fe, NM
    • Shine Pet Food: 506 W Cordova Rd, Santa Fe, NM
    • Teca Tu: DeVargas Center, 165 Paseo De Peralta, Santa Fe, NM
    • PetSmart: 3561 Zafarano Drive, Santa Fe, NM

What’s Next

Once enough donations are gathered, Operation Meow will begin distributing food to caretakers across Northern New Mexico. Updates will be posted on each participating organization’s website.

Our Mission

Fix, feed, and fiercely love community cats.

Together, we can ensure every colony cat across Northern New Mexico gets the care—and the kibble—they deserve.

Operation Meow FAQs

  • What is Operation Meow?

    Operation Meow is a project-based collaboration between Santa Fe Animal Shelter, Española Humane, and Felines & Friends. Together, we’re working to support cats in Northern New Mexico through shared resources, aligned missions, and coordinated efforts.

  • Who can benefit from Operation Meow?

    It depends on the project. Our first effort focuses on supporting community cat caregivers by providing essential supplies like food, shelters, and medical items. These resources help caregivers continue their vital work, keeping community cats safe and healthy.

  • Are there any requirements for those who would like to benefit from the program?

    There are no strict requirements; just submit the application.

  • Where and when can I pick up supplies? 

    • Santa Fe Animal Shelter’s Cat Resale Store Camino Entrada
      • 2570 Camino Entrada, Santa Fe, NM 87507
        • Pickup Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11 – 4
    • Española Humane
      • 108 Hamm Parkway, Española, NM 87532
    • Santa Fe Cats
      • Please contact our Operations Manager directly to arrange pickup: Lye Lobdell [email protected]

  • How many donations can a person receive at one time? 

    It’s determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the size of the cat colony and the supplies we have available. Our goal is to support as many caregivers as possible with what we have.

  • How long can someone collect donations from this program?

    As long as we have resources available.

  • How can I support Operation Meow?

    You can help by donating cat supplies or by simply spreading the word to others who care about community cats. Every bit of support makes a difference. You can view Española Humane’s Operation Meow Wish List here.

  • What is a community cat?

      • Community cats are unowned, outdoor cats who live in and around our neighborhoods. Some were born outside and have never been socialized to people (often called feral), while others may be strays, lost, or abandoned pets who have adapted to life outdoors.
      • While they aren’t house pets, community cats are part of our community. Many receive food and care from kind neighbors and live in groups known as colonies. They are typically not suited for adoption, but with help from programs like Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR), they can live healthy lives outdoors.

  • Where can I find more information about community cats? 

    For a comprehensive and trusted resource, we recommend Alley Cat Allies—a national leader in community cat advocacy and care. Visit alleycat.org to learn more about best practices, TNR (trap-neuter-return), and how to support outdoor cats.

  • How can I care for orphaned kittens?  

    Caring for orphaned kittens takes time and special knowledge, but you’re not alone. Kitten Lady (Hannah Shaw) offers trusted, step-by-step guidance on everything from bottle-feeding to weaning. Visit kittenlady.org/kitten-care for videos, guides, and resources to help you save tiny lives.

  • What if I need help feeding my own pets?

      • CASA- Community Assistance for Santa Fe’s Animals. Link here
      • Pet Amigos – Española Humane’s outreach program Contact here
      • Kitchen Angels can help. Link here.