Frequently Asked Questions

What is Catman2?

Catman2 is a safe for life, cage free cat sanctuary located in Cullowhee, North Carolina. We rescue cats in need, provide lifelong care for those who cannot be adopted and work to place as many cats as possible into loving homes. Our goal is to give every cat a safe, healthy and enriching environment while they wait for their forever family.

What is the shelter like?

Catman2 sits on a quiet 10 acre property in Cullowhee, about three miles from Western Carolina University. The main building is nearly 4,000 square feet and includes large cat rooms where cats can roam freely and socialize. Each room also has screened outdoor porches where cats can safely enjoy fresh air.

There is also a kitten play room with climbing structures and cozy hiding spaces. The facility includes an intake area for new cats and a separate building used for quarantine, nursery care during kitten season and wildlife rehabilitation. Visitors often say the experience is like watching an aquarium, except instead of fish you are watching cats play, explore and relax.

Is Catman2 a no kill cat shelter?

Yes. Catman2 is a safe for life sanctuary that does not euthanize cats for space. Cats are cared for in a cage free environment and receive food, medical care and enrichment while waiting for adoption. Some cats that cannot be adopted due to age or medical needs are able to live safely at the sanctuary for the rest of their lives.

Who founded Catman2?

Catman2 was founded by Dr. Harold “Catman” Sims, a retired biology professor who dedicated his retirement years to helping cats in need. He created the first no kill shelter in Jackson County and later built the Catman2 sanctuary in Cullowhee.

Dr. Sims also founded the American Museum of the House Cat, a unique museum celebrating cats through art, artifacts and history. His vision continues today through Catman2’s mission to rescue, care for and advocate for cats.

Where can I adopt a cat near Cullowhee or Sylva, North Carolina?

Catman2 is a cage free cat sanctuary located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, just minutes from Sylva and Western Carolina University. We rescue cats from Jackson County and surrounding areas and help place them into loving homes throughout Western North Carolina. Visitors are welcome to schedule an appointment to meet adoptable cats and kittens.

Do I need an appointment to visit Catman2?

Yes. Visits to the sanctuary are typically scheduled by appointment to ensure the safety of the cats and to give visitors the best experience possible. If you are interested in adopting or visiting, please contact Catman2 to schedule a time.

How can I adopt a cat?

You can view adoptable cats on the Catman2 website and submit an adoption application. Once your application is reviewed, a member of the team will contact you to discuss the next steps and schedule a visit to meet the cats.

The goal is always to find the best match between the cat and the adopter.

Can I adopt a kitten from Catman2?

Yes. During kitten season Catman2 often has kittens available for adoption. Kittens are placed into foster care or raised at the sanctuary until they are healthy, socialized and ready for their new homes.

Are the cats microchipped?

Yes. Catman2 microchips all adoptable cats so they can be identified if they are ever lost. Microchipping helps increase the chances that a cat will be returned safely if it becomes separated from its owner.

Where can I adopt a cat near Cullowhee or Sylva, North Carolina?

Catman2 is a cage free cat sanctuary located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, just minutes from Sylva and Western Carolina University. We rescue cats from Jackson County and surrounding areas and help place them into loving homes throughout Western North Carolina. Visitors are welcome to schedule an appointment to meet adoptable cats and kittens.

Do I need an appointment to visit Catman2?

Yes. Visits to the sanctuary are typically scheduled by appointment to ensure the safety of the cats and to give visitors the best experience possible. If you are interested in adopting or visiting, please contact Catman2 to schedule a time.

How can I adopt a cat?

You can view adoptable cats on the Catman2 website and submit an adoption application. Once your application is reviewed, a member of the team will contact you to discuss the next steps and schedule a visit to meet the cats.

The goal is always to find the best match between the cat and the adopter.

Can I adopt a kitten from Catman2?

Yes. During kitten season Catman2 often has kittens available for adoption. Kittens are placed into foster care or raised at the sanctuary until they are healthy, socialized and ready for their new homes.

Are the cats microchipped?

Yes. Catman2 microchips all adoptable cats so they can be identified if they are ever lost. Microchipping helps increase the chances that a cat will be returned safely if it becomes separated from its owner.

Why can’t Catman2 take every cat brought to the shelter?

Because Catman2 is a safe for life sanctuary, space and resources are limited. The shelter often operates at capacity and must follow state regulations regarding how many animals can be safely housed.

Catman2 works closely with the Jackson County Animal Shelter and other rescue organizations to help as many cats as possible.

Can I surrender a cat to Catman2?

Because Catman2 has limited space, the sanctuary cannot accept every cat that is brought to them. If the shelter is unable to take a cat, staff may be able to recommend other local resources or shelters in the region.

What veterinary care do the cats receive?

Catman2 works closely with several local veterinary clinics to provide medical care for the cats. Their primary veterinary partner is Sylva Animal Hospital, which has supported the sanctuary for many years.

All adoptable cats receive veterinary care, vaccinations and spay or neuter services before adoption.

What is Catman2’s stance on declawing?

Catman2 does not support declawing. Declawing removes part of a cat’s toe and can cause long term pain and behavioral issues. Scratching is a natural behavior and can be managed with scratching posts and proper training.

If someone specifically wants a declawed cat, Catman2 encourages adopting a cat that has already been declawed rather than performing the procedure.

Can I volunteer at Catman2?

Yes. Volunteers play an important role in caring for the cats and helping with daily shelter activities. Volunteers assist with cleaning, socializing cats, helping at events and supporting adoption efforts.

Can I foster kittens or cats?

Catman2 sometimes works with foster volunteers who can temporarily care for kittens or cats that need extra socialization or medical recovery. Foster homes are especially helpful during kitten season.

Does Catman2 accept donations?

Yes. Donations help provide food, medical care and shelter for the cats. Catman2 welcomes monetary donations as well as supplies such as cat food, litter and cleaning materials.

Many supporters also donate through the Catman2 Amazon or Chewy wish lists.

How can I support cat rescue in Western North Carolina?

You can support Catman2 by adopting a cat, volunteering your time or making a donation. Sharing adoptable cats with friends and family also helps cats find loving homes.

What areas does Catman2 serve?

Catman2 serves communities across Western North Carolina including Cullowhee, Sylva, Dillsboro, Franklin, Waynesville, Cashiers and the greater Jackson County region. Many adopters also visit from Asheville and surrounding mountain communities.