Kittens and kegs came together to ensure cats are getting in safe homes and are not left on the street.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — April in New Mexico is usually kitten season, which is when cat births typically spike and fill up shelters across the state.
Local brewery Canteen Brewhouse in Albuquerque teamed up with new local organization Nine Lives Rescue for Sunday’s Kegs and Kittens event.
So far, Nine Lives has rescued more than 300 kittens since they started their mission back in June 2025. Organizers said shelters are seeing a high number of surrendered cats so events help them rescue cats and connect them with their homes.
One organizer said five kittens were adopted in under 20 minutes. They expect 42 more kittens are expected to be available for adoption in the next few weeks as pregnant moms in their care continue to give birth.
The surge is hitting shelters across the state, especially in rural communities. The biggest challenge is finding fosters and people who can afford to take care of sick or very young cats.
Speaking of contest, Nine Lives stated some owners feel they have no choice but to surrender. However, they stated a little research can help. They recommend looking into local pet food pantries, low cost vet care and free spay and neuter resources in your neighborhood.
“Nine Lives will help you if we can. We’ll get you in, get you a cheaper one. We’ll do how we can to help you,” said Aryn Pearsall, founder of Nine Lives.
The organization often pulls cats from euthanasia lists and rescuing animals from all across New Mexico. This was their first cat adoption event at Canteen Brewhouse and they’re already planning more.
