King Street Cats

I've adopted 4 cats over the past 20 years through King Street Cats! Their volunteers are the most dedicated and awesome group of people. They go above and beyond for the cats in their care and to make sure they get the very best possible homes.

My husband and I have been involved in feline welfare, rescue, TNR and adoptions for many years. When we moved to D.C. this year, we were on the look out for an excellent, feline-focused nonprofit to volunteer with. We have been thrilled to volunteer with King Street Cats (KSC) over the past several months. The leadership of KCS always operates with the best interests of the cats in mind. It's not easy running an all volunteer shelter, but the operations are seamless due to the incredible dedication of the KSC volunteers, Board, and network of foster homes. The shelter is a literal life saver for so many cats that come through its doors - many of them special needs and seniors that have nowhere else to go. While the goal is always adoption, each individual cat at the shelter receives as much love, care, medical support and quality nutrition as our own house cats. I will happily volunteer for them for as long as physically possible!

I’m so proud to be a volunteer at KSC. The Volunteers are very passionate and knowledgeable. Allowing the cats to roam free contributes to a calm, enjoyable environment. Can’t recommend highly enough!

I've been volunteering with King St Cats for over three years now and it's been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Taking care of the cats and watching their personalities come out is so wonderful to see and when they are adopted into loving homes I really feel like I am making a difference.

I have been a volunteer at King Street Cats for more than 4 years. It didn't take long to realize it is a top-notch cat rescue where the cat's needs always come first. The volunteers really get to know the cats' personalities and any special needs. Extra time and care is given to older, ill, and fearful cats. It is very rewarding to see shy and fearful cats blossom and find homes. I am honored to be a volunteer at an organization that is so dedicated to helping cats live their best possible lives.

This shelter gives cats a home and places hundreds of them with new families every year. I can't speak highly enough of King Street Cats.

I volunteer with King Street Cats. I was at the shelter for some hours on a very rainy, lousy day and was grateful that my furry companions were somewhere dry, warm, and safe. KSC is a free roaming, no-kill cat shelter. The shelter is clean. Many cats are also in foster until they are old enough and healthy enough to be in the shelter for potential cat parents to meet them. KSC helps all kinds of cats get homes, but they have to be healthy first so KSC will go the extra mile to get dental care, optical care, any care at all for the cats. The cat’s welfare is first and last. The aim is to find the perfect forever homes and they do. KSC is purposeful, mindful, and sure do get cats into great homes. I am proud to be a part of this nonprofit organization!

I went in for the first time just to visit, I wasn’t sure yet when I would get a cat. Having gone several times I met lots of different volunteers and decided that would be a good place for me to make a difference in my community (and pet cute cats). On the day of my orientation I met Orion (previously Handy). I fell in love right away, I could tell he really wanted his own human to purr at. Within a week or so I did a 1:1 meeting with him and chatted with the volunteers before placing the application. It was an easy process and everyone was so knowledgeable along the way.

I am a volunteer adoption counselor and adopted my cat from KSC. As a volunteer it quickly became obvious to me that every decision made, large or small, focuses on the what’s in the best interest of the cat.it is deeply satisfying to help match the right people with the right cat, and share information and tips that will make each one a furrever home.

I also adopted an anxious and agitated cat who arrived at KSC after another shelter was unsuccessful at marching her with someone and euthanasia was the next next step. Several months later she still hadn’t been adopted from Ksc but the volunteer caregivers realized part of her behavior was due to being around the other shelter cats.

I took a chance and brought Zelda home 3 years ago. It took time and patience to gain her trust and help her feel safe. She’s slowly gone from a cat who growled anytime she heard anyone on the stairs of my apartment building and hid under the bed if anyone came over, to a cat that actually came out from under the bed and got within arms reach of a boisterous 9 year old recently. What a difference! She is very special to me and a wonderful companion.

Not only is KSC a no kill shelter, they recognize that each cat has unique needs and personality, and they’re able to spend the time it takes to sort some of that out and make an adoption match that is realistic and will last.

I've been a volunteer with King Street Cats for more than 10 years, and have adopted and fostered with them. I love how they put the cats first, and are willing to take any cat or kitten as long as there is room. Over the years, I've seen them increase the number of cats they can help by expanding their foster program. So there are cats at the shelter and in homes. This is an all-volunteer organization, and everyone I've worked with has been extremely dedicated and passionate the mission. I'm proud to be associated with them.

I adopted two fabulous older (11 years old) kitties, Blitz(Lizzie) and Blaze(Nik) a little over a year ago. Unfortunately, Blaze(Nik) passed away a couple of months ago from cancer, but Blitz(Lizzie) is very healthy and such a love!! She loves to play with many toys and always keeps a close eye on me! She has even taught me a new trick - a quiet little meow followed by a sit results in me laughing and giving her a little treat!! I totally support King Street Cats, their wonderful loving care and ongoing efforts to find loving homes for so many deserving kitty cats!

King Street Cats does so much to help special need, senior, and community cats. It is amazing that such a small, all volunteer organization can do so much.

We had the opportunity to visit the King Street Cats shelter on Dove Street in Alexandria recently while looking for a new cat to join our household. We were met warmly by the volunteer adoption counselors on site, who asked about about our interests and suggested possible matches. We were encouraged to interact with the cats in the shelter and to ask any question we had about them and the adoption process.

We were extremely impressed that King Street Cats is an entirely volunteer organization, with adoption counselors and care givers devoting their time and energies to ensuring their cats are healthy, well-cared for, and will be adopted by individuals and families who will offer them a forever home. The organization operates through fund raising activities and individual contributions.

King Street Cats is also a no-kill shelter, and accepts cats that may otherwise be euthanized elsewhere. It was shared they also have a high success rates in adopting out special needs cats.

We are fully supportive of King Street Cats and now devote part of our annual charitable contributions to sustain their ongoing good work.

Nothing but compliments for King Street Cats. I live next door to one of their #fabulousfosters and have seen two cats and a litter of kittens get all the medical, food, and socialization that they will ever need. The last one through this foster's was Lake (now Luc). With patience and love, he blossomed into a handsome and sweet young cat! KSC does all the right things with all the right people.

I adopted my two kitties from King Street Cats back in 2012, and started volunteering there shortly after because of the great work they do. KSC takes cats that other places cannot. Many have medical problems that are all taken care of by the rescue. This is amazing work for a place that run solely by volunteers and donations. It's the little rescue that could, and I am proud to do my part to help.

I've volunteered with this rescue for almost 20 years, as have a number of others. KSC goes above and beyond for every cat and kitten. I've witnessed some amazing turnarounds with special medical and behavioral needs cats that would not have made it without KSC agreeing to take them on.

King Street Cats is the best! This all-volunteer charity does so much to save the lives of countless kittens and cats. They never refuse to accept a cat as long as there is space in the orphanage. They take in some of the most hard luck cases, sick & injured cats, cats with behavior issues, older cats, pregnant cats, etc. Then the cats are very well cared for by a team of super dedicated volunteers that make all the cats feel loved and wanted until a forever home is found. I'm so proud to be associated with this group!

As a long-time volunteer for King Street Cats (KSC) it's been gratifying being a part of an outstanding organization that adds value to the community; brings joy to families who adopt new feline family members; contributes to the reduction of feral, homeless, hoarded cats; restores life to injured, ill, and inhumanely harmed cats; and educates on cat population management. KSC is part of my daily language with friends, family, and colleagues. I can't imagine not being a part of this all-volunteer effort.

I'm a volunteer and donor with King Street Cats, and have a beautiful girl cat who was once rescued by them.
I love volunteering for this group. The cats come first, and if they have room, no cat will be turned away, even older or special needs cats. Our website and social media share some of their stories. We have a shelter plus a very robust foster program. Everyone is a volunteer and there are a variety of needs which you can learn about on the website kingstreetcats.org.

As the only "free roaming" no kill shelter in the region, KSC cares about its cats and its volunteers. Amazing that they can do all they do with no paid staff.

Great group of volunteers who run this cage-free cat shelter and give all kitties amazing care. They always keep the cats/kittens best interest in mind for medical needs, care at the shelter, and finding them the best home.

I can't say enough WONDERFUL things about King Street Cats! They truly are such an AMAZING organization! I have been a volunteer for over 7 years and still, I am in awe of the absolute unbelievable labor of love that goes into caring for every single little fur soul that comes through our door. The respect and love between the volunteers is heartwarming, and I credit this culture to the outstanding leadership of our President and leaders who instill teamwork and togetherness in our volunteer staff! King Street Cats gave me my precious little treasure Sawyer who I lost way too soon - but I will be forever grateful for the love he left in my heart. King Street Cats is a family -- and I truly am blessed beyond words to be a part of something so wonderful!

After volunteering with another group for 10 years, I made the jump to KSCs. This is an organization that not just cared about getting cats adopted, sometimes with special needs, but making sure they get adopted into homes that are a good match for both the humans and the cats. Their dedication to the health and welfare of the cats is amazing.

King Street Cats is such an amazing organization focused on rescuing cats and kittens, including from kill shelters and those with special needs. The team is dedicated to creating a safe haven for rescues, as well as foster and adoption services. It's a pleasure to volunteer with you!

I live next door to a volunteer with KSC. She is emblematic of the kind of dedicated volunteers at this wonderful rescue! She is currently fostering a sweetheart of a cat with eye issues, and will be there for him after his surgery(ies). My experience is that whatever cat/kitten she fosters will come out of her compassionate care as a wonderful companion cat for his forever home. Donna rocks! And Lake is having a great time learning to be a happy cat!

A great rescue, the volunteers really care about the cats, they go above and beyond to help these cats, I used to volunteer at King Street cats for over 11 years I also adopted four cats from King Street cats, great place

This wonderful organization does so much good … for cats and the lucky people who adopt them.

KSC is unique in the area: the open area gives the cats comfort, stimulation and encourages social skills. I've adopted three cats from KSC and have been volunteering there for several years. I’m immensely impressed by the loving care and attention to needs given by the all-volunteer staff. They do so much on a shoe-string budget.

I’m happy to do what I can to help this place that does its best to care for all cats: lost, abandoned, abused, old and alone, cats who have never had a chance and those whose live have been upended.

Please open your heart, adopt a delightful loving pet, and donate to keep this special place going.

As a non-profit organization devoted to feline welfare, King Street Cats (hereafter referred to as KSC) exceeds all expectations in what I deem are the following critical areas: 1.) fidelity to principles; 2.) professionalism and attention to detail; 3.) associations with veterinarian facilities and the local community, and; 4.) personal association with the organization, its staff, and volunteers.

1.) Fidelity to principles. KSC has established itself, locally , regionally, and to some degree nationally as an effective feline welfare organization, being able - over a 20-year period - to muster the leadership, organizational integrity, resources, personnel, and stamina coupled with an ability to change and adapt over time to reinforce its founding principles of dedication, professionalism, and no-kill. Throughout its existence and up to the present time, there was never a truer statement which embodies the principles of this organization than that of "No cat left behind!" And this philosophy permeates the organization from the organizational leadership to the vital field volunteers. Additionally morale is high in this organization because everyone at KSC is treated with respect which promotes genuine dedication to the cause.

2.) Professionalism and attention to detail. Across the entire spectrum of feline welfare, from medical treatment (veterinarian- and organization-based), transportation to-and-from veterinarian facilities, day-to-day facilities feeding-watering-cleanliness-interaction, individual cats medical regimen development /maintenance to the cat vetting and adoption process all KSC staff and volunteers are highly trained. While their adoptions carry a necessary fee, there is always the adopters' option to return that cat or cats back to KSC. In addition to programs like microchips, fostering, and spay-neuter-return programs, the individual cat is never truly alone. From the induction of a cat into KSC to either final adoption or permanent residency, facet of this organization is process-based.

3.) Associations with veterinarian facilities and the local community. Since medical care is the most vital aspect of feline welfare, whether the cat has or has not health problems, KSC has developed and maintained strong and flexible relationships with veterinarian facilities, complemented by dedicated and eager volunteers to provide transportation of cats to-and-from facilities, administering of medication and procedures such as fluids and steaming, and consultation with medical professionals whenever necessary. Association with the local community is also another important facet of KSC's work, which includes adoption stations, theater night, kitten purlooza, and visiting the KSC facility itself.

4.) Personal association with the organization, its staff, and volunteers. This recommendation is given based on an over 10 year personal association with KSC from the standpoint of my wife being a volunteer and fosterer, adopting several cats from KSC, and personal relations with many of the KSC staff. What I can additionally say and/or reinforce about KSC is that the staff and volunteers "really care" about cats, their morale is high both individually and as an organization, and the cohesion of all members of KSC is for the most part, solid and sincere.


George J. Refuto

King Street Cats has brought so much joy to so many cats and kittens and their human adopters! They show a great amount of care to their cats and kittens--not just medical care and food but love and affection. The happiness that they spread is contagious!!

Absolutely the best. I have been a volunteer for over 15 years with this organization. They try dutifully to find the best home for each cat in their possession. The cats in their care are not only well cared for, but doted upon until they find their forever home. They do a remarkable job with cats who are deemed too sick or too difficult - often ending up with cats who are amazing. They are truthful about the cats in their care and don't sugarcoat any challenges. They believe each cat deserves to be loved. I have adopted four cats from there and couldn't love them more. See pictures of my current three.

Never met a more dedicated group of volunteers. Its hard to believe they work all day and then devote what spare time they have to the saving the lives of more than 350 cats and kittens every year. Simply amazing!

Been adopting from and volunteering with KSC for 15 years -- never met a group of volunteers more dedicated to their cause.

I volunteer here occasionally because I LOVE that it's all volunteer-run. Yes, it means that there are limitations to how much can get done around here, and how quickly, but it also means that all the money goes to the cats. All of it. And KSC never gives up on a cat, which is touching. Once a King Street Cat, always a King Street Cat.

Great group of people who are passionate about what they do. No cat is too difficult to take on and they make sure to find the most suitable home for them. Definitely recommend stopping by, getting involved, or even just making a donation in support of this organization.

I volunteered for two years for this shelter, and I am extremely proud for the work I have done with them for the kitties, but the last two months ruined all my opinion about the totalitarian regime used to run this place.
I started volunteering after adopting one of their cats, almost 7 years ago, so It was a no brainer going back and adopting another one when our oldest passed away. The kitty was microchiped, so we called the company to transfer the primary contact, but KSC denied the transfer. I received a brief email saying that their policy is not to transfer the primary contact, but we were added as alternate (did I mention that they "forgot" to provide our contact information?).
I wrote back, this time to the president, who told me again about the policy, and that we do not need to be worried about it. I replied objecting to the policy, because the kitty is in our custody, not theirs (what if we change state or country?) but they simply ignored me. Long story short, we have an appointment with a lawyer, because we want to go to the bottom of this unprofessional and unethical behavior. This "policy" was not disclosed on the adoption contract, but only written in VERY small print on a pet info page from another shelter.
I am going to avoid describing our personal experience with a person of the board taking care of our cats, which personally disappointed me to so many levels, but I cannot avoid to do the math and give credits to all the negative reviews I have found online so far.

King Street Cats is Alexandria’s only no kill, free roaming, all volunteer run, cat exclusive shelter. I have been volunteering there for over 3 years and am amazed at the number of cats that have been saved by this small rescue. They take cats from other shelters who have medical issues or behavioral issues and do whatever is necessasry to get them ready to find them a forever home. King Street Cats relies solely on donations from the public to accomplish its mission. Every penny donated goes to the care of the cats.

Marvelous organization with every volunteer 100% committed to creating new and better lives for cats and kittens by providing them with quality medical care, giving them lots of love, and ultimately finding them the best forever homes.

King Street Cats (KSC) is an amazing 100% volunteer no kill shelter. We contribute to KSC through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) at work and through Amazon Smile. We love their kitten purloozas and what about me for seniors. Their dedicated and loving volunteers are the best! We appreciate all they do.

King Street Cats is amazing! This organization is run on donations and volunteers, no government support. Everyone works tirelessly to save as many cats as we can, no matter circumstance. Great Little organization!

I have visited this nonprofit a total of 4 times. I have helped adopt a cat for a friend here and am in the process of adopting 2 kittens here. The people are kind and caring and the cats are very well provided for. The environment they provide is also ideal for meeting the kitties in a place where they feel comfortable and are able to show off their personality. This in turn helps them get adopted much faster.

I have only good things to say about King Street Cats.

I've been supporting this cat rescue for years. They do an amazing job of finding forever homes for cats, including special needs cats requiring medical attention and specialty fostering. They broadcast their success stories for all of us to share. King Street Cats provides critical humane services to area cats.

I wish I had found King Street Cats when I adopted my babies! They are by far the most caring shelter I have come across, and really take the time to check out potential adopters and make sure their cats go to the right homes. They also take excelletent care of all cats and kittens, waiting until they are at an appropriate age and weight before undergoing procedures which I think is very important to the kitten's health and safety.
I also love the fact that the cats are free roaming, meaning they aren't cooped up all day and get to interact with the other cats!

And to top it all of - the staff are super friendly and helpful!

I currently foster kittens for KSC and after my experience with them, not only am I so glad I picked them to work with, but I will be recommending them to any and every one I come across that is thinking of adopting.

KSC is a dedicated organization who strive to take care of as many cats as they can!

The staff involved with King Street Cats are sincere and commit to their mission with the cats they care for.

We've had a horrible experience with King Street Cats President. She has been dishonest and disrespectful to visitors. Thankfully the regular volunteers are quite helpful. But they fear her and what she will do.

I have been volunteering at King Street Cats for about 5yrs and I love it, they are a no kill shelter, and most if the cats are free roaming, they take in cats from other shelters that would get euthanized if not taken in by King Street Cats.

I have adopted 3 cats from King Street Cats.

Lorraine Refuto.

King Street Cats is AMAZING! I have been a part of this wonderful all volunteer, all donation rescue/adoption shelter for over 2 years -- and every single day I am in awe of the absolute unbelievable labor of love that goes into caring for every single little fur soul that comes through our door. The respect and love between the volunteers is unbelievable -- everyone wants to be there and do whatever it takes to care for the kids until they find their forever homes! I credit this culture to the outstanding leadership of our President and leaders who instill teamwork and togetherness in our volunteer staff! King Street Cats is a family -- and I truly am blessed beyond words to be a part of something so wonderful!

I've adopted from and been a volunteer for KSC for 12 years. Its hard to believe its an all-volunteer organization. On average more than 300 cats and kittens are rescued each year. What is most amazing is that KSC will take on the special medical and behavioral needs cats that are on death row at area shelters. They provide a safe haven and all veterinary needs until these cats are ready to find a home--how ever long it takes. I am proud to be a volunteer with such a dedicated, amazing group of people saving these precious souls.

King Street Cats is such an amazing organization! I have adopted from them and currently foster and could not be happier with them. They truly have the best interest of the cats at heart and work tirelessly to take care of them and find them all forever homes. I am so thankful for KSC and all the volunteers that make their mission possible!

I have fostered over 5 litters of kittens for King Street Cats. They are the most awesome rescue to work with. I love that they screen their adopters thoroughly and they stress the importance of adopting kittens in pairs.
They have a wonderful group of caring, dedicated volunteers who care for the cats and find them the most loving homes possible.

We adopted our boy, Pinot from KSC and continue to support them ever chance we get. They're a wonderful organization with fantastic staff who truly care. They listened to our concerns and needs and helped direct us to our 4 year old boy, who was a better fit than a kitten as a companion for our older, existing cat.

Top notch rescue run by a team passionate about cat welfare! Professional, dedicated staff and volunteers ensure furbabies are well cared for and socialized then make perfect matches for forever homes. King Street Cats -- the best of the best!

We have volunteered with King Street Cats for 7 years. For several years, we helped in the Cat Room with cleaning and feeding. For the past few years, we have fostered kittens every summer. You will not find a more devoted group of volunteers anywhere. The leadership is excellent and cats are well-cared for and loved. KSC has partnered with several area veterinary clinics so the cats receive excellent medical care. If you are looking to adopt a cat or to volunteer, you should visit KSC today!

Years ago, I fostered a couple lovely cats from this organization. It was the first time I had taken on this type of responsibility but their communication and positive attitudes made it an easy experience. Eventually, I adopted a cat from them. I had seen her on PetFinder and was coincidentally at King Street Cats!
I've since moved so volunteer with a different cat rescue group, but King Street Cats started this fulfilling journey.

Love volunteering here. Everyone is very dedicated to the welfare of the kitties and to finding them the best forever home.

My sister and brother in law adopted two little cats from this shelter I wouldn't adopt from,anywhere except this shelter

King Street Cats has the ideal environment to get to know a cat before you adopt. The cats are chillin' in a nice big room. I have fostered cats through other groups that were nice cats, but did terribly in a cage at an adoption fair. This group is a model for adoption groups around the country. Please support their work.

It amazes me that KSC remains all-volunteer, and yet manages to rescue and find homes for more than 300 cats each year. Many cats are senior, shy or otherwise considered "hard-to-adopt." KSC goes to extraordinary lengths to get cats the veterinary care they need, raising the money for surgery and visits to specialists when necessary. KSC's dedicated volunteers spend many, many hours caring for these cats and make sure they find "forever homes," not "just until." And, I know that 100% of my donations go to the care of the cats!

KSC volunteers, particularly those at the Shelter in Alexandria, have the unique ability to help cats who are initally shy and perhaps difficult to place for adoption and socialize them so they are able to find forever homes. Two cats that I was fostering for another group, Gretchen and Gidget, had been in foster care with me for a long time. Beautiful long haired dilute torties, the girls had warmed up to me but were very fearful of strangers. KSC accepted them into their program and the girls blossomed under the care of the volunteers who come into the shelter and went on to find a permanent home together. Truly amazing considering that they had lived outside for eight months before they were rescued.

We adopted one of the sweetest cats I've ever met from King Street Cats in January 2012. Her name is Winky and she's blind in one eye and was flown to the U.S. mainland from the island of St. Croix through a partnership KSC has with an animal welfare organization in St. Croix. My husband and I still comment on all of the effort KSC went through to bring Winky into our lives via this program. KSC's adoption counselors recommended the perfect cat for us and our other cat who was 9 years old at the time we adopted her (and had always been an only cat). Just yesterday, we saw them sleeping right next to each other on the couch; we still can't believe they get along so well. I have now been volunteering at KSC for the past year to help others also find amazing cats like Winky! It is such a rewarding experience to volunteer at such a dedicated organization.

Such a wonderful group of people who care for such a great group of cats! From being incredibly responsive in emails with foster/adoption coordination to keeping kittens and cats happy and healthy, we LOVE king street cats!

I had known of KSC for years and choose them over all the other shelters when it was time again to adopt. The volunteers are beyond amazing : loving, caring and dedicated to the felines that come in~ day and night ! I volunteer and get donation boxes for them picked up, bring food and litter and can't say enough positive about this incredible organization ! Love speeding the word about them to others too ! Highest rating !!

Amazing people doing amazing work! They are really going over and beyond to try to find the right puuuurson for a cat. They have all the background info on the cats if available and make it hard not to fall in love with those sweet little guys! We've donated money in the past to support the cause and we'll do it again! Cats need more supporters out there like this organization!!!

I have not seen better dedication and kindess anywhere. These people are well organized to clean,feed, care for these babys, and show them in public to,increase interest in adoptions. And every dime goes into the needs of the cats. There are no paid employees! Love King Street cats! And they took care of my cat 10 years ago when it was found...and got it the care it needed.

I have volunteered for KSC for over 5 years now, and am still excited to help by adoption counseling at their shelter on weekends, and maintaining photo albums on the KSC website. The board and other volunteers are utterly devoted to the welfare of the cats, and wonderful people to work with - those who match the right cat(s) with the right families, those who foster cats and kittens, and those who do such a great job feeding and cleaning each day! I encourage anyone thinking about adopting a cat (or two!), to visit our wonderful no kill, free roaming shelter full of lovely, sweet felines...and thank those who adopt from, foster for, and support this terrific organization financially and/or through service.

Putting on my Cat Behavior Consultant hat, I want to salute King Street Cats for being a learning organization -- one that continues to review its processes and procedures, making changes to improve the lives of all the cats and kittens it touches. These folks are truly passionate about cats, and go to great lengths to save as many as they can.

Changing to my adopter hat, I want to thank KSC for allowing us to adopt the amazing, cool-as-a cucumber cat named Betsey. Bets came into a home with four dogs and three other cats and never batted an eyelash. She's a diplomat, a comfort providing cat, a friend to all our doggies, and a true comedienne. We'll never be able to thank KSC enough for helping us adopt a beloved member of our family.

I lost my 15 year old cat and was devastated. I had so much love in my heart -- and there was also an emptiness. My sister (and many others) suggested I adopt a rescue kitten. I went several places, but when I looked at the cats on this site my heart felt a tug. I met with them this week and they suggested I adopt two little siblings (5 months old). They had had a horrible start to life and KSC had come to the rescue. They were being "fostered" by a wonderful person who obviously cared for them so much. The minute I laid eyes on this little brother and sister, I was smitten. That very evening, they came into my home and began playing. They slept beside me that first night. It has been less than a week, but these adorable kittens have already secured my love for the rest of their lives. That foster mother did a wonderful job with these two -- they know love and security. I am so very grateful that I will do anything and everything I can to help this amazing group, KSC, with donations and my support. What a great job they do for these cats - young and old. If you are looking for a feline to be part of your family, you should definitely come to KSC!

We come to King Street Cats all the way from Australia each year because it is such a wonderful non-profit where the cats benefit from the incredible work of the people involved. We brought college students with us the last two years on a field trip and they were amazed by how happy the cats are to know they have a life haven like King Street.

We discovered KSC last summer and were immediately impressed by their staff and their ability to care for so many cats. They are a wonderful organization full of caring, dedicated, and professional volunteers. During the last Combined Federal Campaign, I added them to my CFC list for donations. When we were ready to adopt a cat this winter, KSC was the obvious choice to find a cat to fit our home. We found a lovely lady that was 8 years old that we wanted to take home. KSC let us make multiple visits with the cats to make sure our pick was indeed a good fit for our home. They took time to vet us to ensure cats were going to good homes. We've had our sweet girl home for almost 4 months now thanks to KSC!

King Street Cats is a lifesaving organization for cats who are abandoned, found on the street, hit by cars, etc. My husband and I fostered four kittens for them last year, and it was an amazing experience. KSC made it incredibly easy - supplying us with food, litter, and paying for the vet when we had to take them. They then took pains to find homes for those awesome kittens - in pairs. That was awesome because they were all so close.

I am proud to be a volunteer for King Street Cats. Now that I have retired, It is my privilege to spend time doing something that is truly important both to cats that enrich so many people's lives and to myself. My hours spent caring for the shelter's cats, raising funds to support the veterinary and supply expenses of the cats and fostering kittens and cats are perhaps more meaningful than decades of my employment life all of which were in charitable organizations. King Street Cats is a no kill shelter that is entirely volunteer staffed. It does not, because it cannot, save every cat in the world or in Alexandria. It does, however, save as many cats, as it can, regardless of cost. Those cats in turn can and do benefit in so many ways the people and families who are fortunate in adopting them. King Street Cats is an organization that is worthy of your support.
Lissa Elliott

We have known and donated to King Street Cats since they were actually located on King Street and Chester was their front-door "spokescat". We have not yet adopted from King Street because we have 3 older cats but sadly the day will come and then we will certainly go there first. King Street Cats does a wonderful job every year saving cat lives and bringing joy to so many new families, they are an essential safety net in our community!

I've yet to have the pleasure of adopting from King Street Cats, but in my eyes they are every stray or abandoned cat's heroes. In 2011 a sweet, handsome kitty was abandoned in my neighborhood. I would've kept him, but he was not other animal friendly at the time & I have 3 animals already. I called so many rescues to only be told no then asked for money. I felt awful, because there seemed like little help out there to save the kitty. Until I was turned on to King Street Cats. They never asked for money & took the kitty in. I was so happy & grateful that I've donated when I can to them. They were amazing. I know this is one story of one little kitty, but I will never forget what they did (and said kitty has been adopted) & how they stepped in when no one else would. Great organization!

King Street Cats is a lovely facility that really cares about what's best for their cats. We were so impressed that so many of the cats had free roam: it really seems like such a lovely environment for the cats. The cats we adopted were really healthy: we took them to the vet and there were no problems.
I also really appreciated that King Street Cats tries to keep bonded cats together. Having had a single cat in the past, and now having two bonded brothers, I can tell that it's really best for these little guys to have feline companionship!

King Street Cats is a wonderful, warm and caring no-kill cat shelter. The facilities are clean and the cats are very well cared for. They are also socialized with human friends so that they are ready to go to their forever home as soon as they are matched with their perfect human companion. We adopted our sweet kitty, BimBim, from King Street Cats. We are so grateful that they took him in when he was sick and made sure he had the best veterinary care. BimBim was well cared for and in great shape when we adopted and brought him home. He adapted quickly to our family and to our other cats. We have now begun volunteering our time once a month on Family Volunteer Day. It is nice to be able to personally give time and talent to such a wonderful cat shelter.

I had a cat pass away in Spring 2013 and I knew I would need a buddy for my remaining cat. I decided to go to KSC because they seemed to have a good understanding of the cats in their care and I felt that they would be able to match me with the right fit for my remaining cat. Even though I had already picked out a few possibilites from their website, they introduced me to several cats and let me play with them for a few hours during my visit. They pointed out one cat that I hadn't noticed on the website, who was a happy, playful boy. After talking further with Vicky, KSC's president, I decided that this cat was the one for me and brought Marius home the next weekend. Marius was rescued from a kill shelter in VA, along with other cats he had been surrendered with. KSC really did save his life, and I'm glad to have such a wonderful companion now. KSC did an excellent job caring for him while he was at their shelter and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to friends or to adopt from them again in the future should I need or want to.

Several years ago we wanted to adopt a sweet red Persian boy..The folks at KSC told us he was ill , not sure of diagnosis etc but they let us have him as we assured them we wanted him and would care for him..We brought him home and to the vet where PKD was confirmed..We only had him for 2 weeks before he crossed the Rainbow Bridge, but he was such a very special cat from a very special place..KSC volunteers kept in touch with us thru his stay with us..We were very impressed with those folks whom we'd met, friendly, informative and honest..The area was spotless and they obviously loved the cats. KSC is the only "charity" we donate to when we can..They are an awesome organization..Would volunteer if we still lived in VA.. The Wessner's St. Pete ,Florida

King Street Cats is a truly wonderful non-profit. They really work at matching kitties with the right pet parent . They havea wonderful group of volunteers.

I volunteer once a month at KSC and am blown away by the dedication of the volunteer staff. The volunteers know the kitties so well and give them amazing care. One occupational hazard of volunteering there is that I added a new cat to my household :) Having most of the cats roaming freely in the facility gives potential adopters a great opportunity to interact with the cats and find the best fit for the cat and the family.

KSC is an awesome place to find a cat. When my sister in law showed my wife a cat at KSC, she fell in love with it. Needless to say, she (the cat) has now been with us for over a year and is very much enjoying her new home with her brothers (2 cats) - although she would probably tell you otherwise. If you ever get the chance - go by KSC and see it in person, it is great what all the volunteers do.

We adopted a cat from King Street Cats - a no-kill shelter just for cats. The cats can freely roam and are not locked in cages 24/7. We can't say enough about the compassionate care cats receive at this shelter.

I volunteer for King Street Cats. I'm amazed at what great care this group provides to so many cats in need with a completely volunteer staff. They are one of the few no kill shelters in the area and rescue from other groups when cats' time has run out. They do everything to make sure the cats are well socialized and end up with the right family. I'm so glad this group exists and that I can help in even a small way.

My sister asked me to "like" this page on FB to support and learn more about this wonderful organization. We are from a family of cat rescuers, and we are blown away by the great work they do. King Street Cats rocks!

I just cannot find enough thoughtful and kind adjectives to use for King Street Cats. It’s just an amazing organization. As a volunteer, I am an adoption counselor, foster parent, as well as a member of the transport team to rescue cats from local shelters and get our felines to the vet for medical care. The collegiality and teamwork between the volunteers is astounding. The love and care given to our feline residents is phenomenal. I am very proud to be part of KSC. They are most worthy of this award.

We found KSC when we were renting in Alexandria and had to put our old kitty to sleep two days before Xmas. We adopted two adult cats from KSC and were very impressed with the level of commitment by the volunteers and how well all the cats were cared for. They never cease to promote their organization and all the volunteers are super sweet and have only the best intentions towards the cats in their keeping.
I would recommend them highly and absolutely feel they should be at the top of your awards list!

KSC genuinely loves the cats in their care. This is made evident by their fostering program, their kind and dedicated volunteers, and the happy cats they look after and prepare for adoption. Any rescue group that's willing to keep adoptable animals indefinitely is great in my book.

We have three kitties from King Street Cats. Thank heavens for no-kill shelters!

King Street Cats is a fantastic organization. The volunteers have such a love for all the cats and truly want each cat to be adopted into a wonderful home. The adoption process was great and the staff really helped us to the pick the most perfect cat for our home. The staff was very knowledgeable about the cats available. We really did adopt the most perfect cat for us. I highly recommend King Street Cats to anyone looking to adopt!

By far the best animal rescue group in Northern Virginia. It is amazing what these people do with an all-volunteer corps - no paid staff! So all donations go directly to the care of the cats. I know my money is well spent. They take the time to make sure each adoption is a good match. They closely monitor the health of each cat while in their care. And they are there for adoptors after in case they have any questions or concerns. NO better rescue group around!

I have been volunteering at KSC for four months now and I'm totally impressed with the organization! They have an amazing and highly successful adoption program and are so loving and caring of all the cats...to include the ones who have been in the shelter for a long time. I'm proud to be associated with and to support King Street Carts. 100% of donations go to rescuing and sheltering the cats. If you are a cat lover, I can't think of a better organization to support.

We adopted our cat from King Street Cats a couple years ago and were so impressed by how well the adoption counselors were able to match our needs and find us the perfect cat to get along with the cat we already have. They take the time to get to know each person/family and their situation, you don't feel like just a number when you walk in. I am looking forward to beginning to volunteer at such a worthwhile organization this month!

King Street Cats helped us get our three kittens. They also helped us trap, neuter, get full vet workups, and release some feral cats and kittens. They are a great organization that offers free love, care, feeding and low-cost adoption in a no-kill, cage-free environment. They are the best of the best.

They accepted a stray cat I had found, and I was very impressed by their positive, helpful attitudes and genuine feeling for the beautiful cats for whom they care extremely well. People may not understand what an overwhelming job they have, but I'm very impressed with their efforts and their approach.

My husband and I adopted a cat from King Street Cat Rescue about two months ago. What impresses me the most about King Street Cats is their dedication to finding a forever home for each and every cat. Their dedication is unyelding. I "liked" their facebook page once I learned about their organization and I cannot tell you how many amazing stories they post about cats the need foster homes and forever homes, as well as updates on cats that have found a forever home. The volunteers that work at the rescue are driven as well. They love the cats that they care for and do everything they can to make the cats feel loved. From the first time I contacted King Street Cats about adopting Cotton, they were responsive and at the same time made sure we were a good fit for Cotton. See, Cotton does not play well with other cats, and King Street Cats made sure that we did not have any other animals and that we were not planning on getting any other animals. Cotton is deaf and gets startled with people or animals seemingly sneak up on her. My husband and I were looking for a cat that needed a special home and we are so happy that Cotton has joined our family. Another piece of this story is that Cotton was in a shelter in West Virginia that was severly damaged by the snow storm that followed Super Storm Sandy. King Street Cats drove to the shelter in West Virginia to deliver food, blankets, and other items for the animals. While they were there they rescued Cotton and some other cats and brought them back to their shelter in Alexandria, VA. Cotton has had a rough life in her short two years, but we will make sure that she is well taken care of from here on out.

I am fostering a mom and 4 kittens through King Street Cats. I love the fact that all the monies they accrue, go to the cats. It is amazing how much King Street Cats does with the support staff. All the volunteers I have met are smart, hard working, and very giving people. When a cat is adopted out, it is already spayed/neutered, age appropriate vaccines have been give, the cat is de-wormed and groomed. I have spent hours on the phone over the past month getting advice on how to care for the mom and babies. This is a wonderful organization.

Great organization all volunteer run so all of the $$$$$ goes to the care of the cats who are free roaming not kept in cages as close to home as one can be without a home!

Most animal lovers will agree, it is incredibly hard to walk past row after row of cages full of little animals that you just know are dying to be out in the open, connecting with people and being active. That's part of the reason I love King Street Cats so much - the kitties get to roam around! It makes such a difference in the disposition of animals. King Street Cats is such a worthy nonprofit!

We adopted our beautiful cat from King Street Cats (Burglar). KSC took him in after being injured and nursed him back to health. They were caring and kind and ensured that he was healthy prior letting us adopt him.

The volunteers there (all volunteers) are so helpful and knowledgable about the personalities of each cat. Their work helps hundreds of animals each year by providing care and facilitating their adoption. They take animals that would be killed -- and they keep animals from adding to the populations in kill shelters. They also find foster care for many animals.

I just love KSC and donate to them as well. Thanks King Street Cats.

when i decided to adopt a cat i started searching the internet and found ksc. i stopped in one saturday afternoon after seeing a pic of a kitten i just feel in love with. when i got there frank was there one of the foster parents and he introduced me to jenka. we played a while and got to know each other in a private room. i then asked frank if jenka had a brother or sister (my daughter insisted i get her a play mate) and frank said that thatcher was not her real brother but they had grown up together in foster care and they got along very well. i said ok bring him on. so jill franks wife brought thatcher over and i got aquainted with them both. well it didnt take long at all..........they had me in no time. so i made arrangements to come back the next day and pick them up. since last september, jenka and thatcher have been the lights of my life, as i live alone and they are truly companions to me. we have lots of little riturals we do and i wouldnt say i rescued them.......they rescued me. i could not love them more. they are my babies. i thought the people were very loving, caring and compasionate. frank and jill were wonderful in introducing me to my babies, in fact when i got ready to take them, frank started to cry. KUDOS TO ALL OF THE VOLUNTEERS AND FOSTER PARENTS. I have recommended KSC to all of my family and friends.

King Street Cats is truly a Magical Kingdom. Once you enter the orphanage, a wonderful and unique feeling of happiness surrounds you as the cats play, climb, lounge in the sunlight of the window, and get continuous love and attention from the volunteers and visitors. Volunteering for King Street Cats is an absolutely joyful experience. Getting to know each cats' individual personality, as they freely do the things that cats do, in a place as close to home sweet home, is everything a homeless cat could wish for...until the day a new furever family comes along.

I was amazed at how many new volunteers came to orientation my first day. It was proof to me that KSC's reputation as a dedicated and caring animal rescue organization. I was put to task right away (which I wanted) as a foster mom for 4 kittens until time to spay and for a little pregnant girl who is missing an eye and was due to be put down the day before at another shelter. A concerned person called KSC and they took her immediately. I have had the greatest feelings of gratitude and satisfaction to be able to support the KSC mission to adopt so many wonderful cats to equally wonderful people. There are easily 35 cats in one room together and they all are so friendly and well cared for. If you're like me and have lost your furry friends after 20 yrs of friendship, and you aren't ready to commit again to adoption, consider volunteering. I'm so glad I did. I"m really proud to be a member of the KSC team!

As a volunteer, going to KSC and seeing 30+ cats in the same room all getting along with each other is amazing. Knowing that behind the scenes are dozens of dedicated volunteers who feed, clean, give medicines, plus those who make sure all the supplies are there, the ones who take the cats and kittens to the Veterinarian, all the foster parents who care for the sick, injured or momma's with babies and then the few who monitor the whole production. And then you look around at how sweet the kitties are, and when someone comes in to adopt and a cat will pick that person out....just last week, I saw a cat perch right next to the woman and just stared at her, as if to say "you are finally here for me"..... And then to see all the happy pictures of the cats in their new "fur-ever" homes..... this organization is a wonderful example of people caring about and doing something about a need in their community.

I love volunteering for KSC. Not only do I get to spend time with the kittens and cats, I also get to meet animal friendly people in my city! KSC is a great organization that focuses all of its attention on helping cats!

Been a volunteer for over 5 years as a feeder and cleaner. Last year added fostering. Currently caring for my own two KSC rescue special needs cats while fostering four kittens whose mom was hit by a car. Polly is assisting me in writing this; she's a siamese throw-back with blue eyes and a never ending purr machine! Her siblings (2 males and another female) are too adorable for words. My two older cats groom them and snuggle with them. I look forward to their getting forever homes. King Street Cats is a wonderful place to volunteer and donate needed items. It's always exciting to get the news another home have been found for one of the residents. This is an amazing no-kill shelter that definitely cares for each cat that finds its way there. Come and visit to see for yourself!

All cats and kittens who are lucky enough to get into this no-kill shelter receive excellent medical care, socialization, and love. The dedication of its all-volunteer staff is unsurpassed.

King Street Cats is an amazing no-kill, all volunteer rescue group! All of the cats are extremely well taken care of and all of the volunteers work very hard to make sure these kitties are healthy, happy & find a wonderful new forever home! The dedication exhibited by these volunteers is second to none. I have volunteered at other rescue groups, which did a good job, but this group is head and shoulders above any and all animal care places, whether professionally run or volunteer run, that I have ever seen!!

King Street Cats is an all-volunteer, no-kill rescue group which runs on the dedication of the most impressive group of individuals. KSC is unique in that it operates a 'cat orphanage' in addition to the network of foster homes common to animal rescue. Maintenance of this facility requires an extra level of dedication and commitment - each day volunteers spend hours cleaning, feeding, observing, socializing and loving these animals. Each person I've had the pleasure of meeting has impressed me. Animals have no voice. King Street Cats comes to know each animal as an individual and so can 'speak' about each cat's personality and charms in order to make the best adoptive match. The right match changes both lives immeasurably for the better.

Love love love King Street Cats! We have adopted cats at King Street Cats, Volunteered there, fostered for them and donated. The volunteers are all so hard working and dedicated. The cats are free roaming versus being kept in cages. They never give up on their cats and find truly happy homes for them. They make such a difference in the lives on these cats and the families that eventually adopt them.

My wife and I have adopted a female cat and one of her kittens through King Street Cats. Throughout the process, we were impressed with the knowledge, selflessness, and dedication to purpose exhibited by the staff and volunteers. We were so impressed by the organization that we've become volunteers ourselves.

King Street Cats in Alexandria, VA is an entirely (top-to-bottom) volunteer-run no-kill shelter for felines. It receives no government funding, relying entirely on private donations to rescue, feed, protect, medically treat, and find homes for potentially hundreds of cats and kittens each year. This truly grassroots endeavor has attracted an amazing network of volunteers to foster cats, serve as feeders and cleaners, adoption counselors, mobile ambassadors, cat-to-vet transporters, fundraisers, public relations and more. I donate time to the shelter as often as I can and it's a wonderful experience, teaching me a great deal about cats while giving me the chance to meet terrific people (volunteers, foster parents and adopters) and giving me much pride and joy. The folks who run the shelter are absolutely heroic and they and the cats bring out the best in we who work to help the cats we love and who love us in return. I encourage all who know about KSC to support it and please, spay and neuter your cats!

I have fostered and help with fundraising for this amazing rescue group. As a CPA, I have met with board members and reviewed their financial statements, they are committed to making sure all donations go to the cats! No paid staff here.....just the most generous volunteers. I love being affiliated with them!

The volunteers at King St Cats are so dedicated to their kitties!!! The healthy environment at the orphanage is in the total interest of the cats...and it doesn't end there.... They are very active on Facebook giving all of us cat lovers every opportunity to fall in love with a new best cat-buddy. When ever one of my friends is looking for a cat I send them here first.

Being a former Animal Care Technician (12 years) for some of the the local area shelters here in Northern Virginia all I can say is I'm really impressed with what I have seen from this organization. Although I have not yet been able to get to the new shelter on Dove street, I did visit their King street location many times. This organization is truly dedicated to helping out our feline friends. From the overall cleanliness of the shelter, the dedication of the volunteers, to the cats themselves this is the place to go. But! they do more than just help cats, they help the public through education/support programs, help folks out who are down on their luck and may not have funds to feed their companions, etc. To accomplish what they have with an all volunteer staff and relying strictly on donations is mind-boggling. I encourage anyone looking for a companion to check out KSC. You won't regret it.

King Street Cats (KSC) is a marvelous place to find a kitty, or two, to brighten your life and home!! Everyone associated with this group is a dedicated volunteer, with the welfare and happiness of our cats foremost in mind- but they also have a mission to bring great happiness into peoples' lives, by helping to match the right kitties with the right families. At the Dove Street shelter, you can interact directly with many cats, as most are free-roaming rather than in cages-- you can play and cuddle with, and observe all or a few that catch your eye! Counselors will help you meet kitties with the characteristics you request, and provide excellent advice about harmoniously sharing your home with one or more cats. If you are thinking about adopting cats, please--- look at our Website to see the adorable cats we have available; view our Facebook pages to enjoy candid photos and success stories; and then come to KSC when you are ready to choose your new feline friend(s). You will want to tell your friends about the wonderful experience you have had, afterwards!

King Street Cats is indeed a great non-profit. It's purpose is to help orphaned kitties have a comfortable, clean well cared for place to stay until they are adopted into their forever home. The kitties have a large cage free, loving environment in which to live, in this, their transitional home. An all-volunteer cat rescue group (it does not euthanize) King Street Cats functions so well because of their caring and dedicated group of volunteers who clean, feed,entertain and love both the kitties and King Street Cats. Most recently they cared for the cats in the midst of Hurricane Sandy making sure they were safe and well cared for.

It’s amazing what this shelter accomplishes relying solely on an all-volunteer staff and donations. The truly dedicated staff provide such wonderful care for each and every cat they take in and work tirelessly to find them forever homes.

I adopted one of my cats from King Street Cats several years ago, back when the organization occupied a floor above a storefront in Alexandria. That dear little cat has brought me much joy, has moved back and forth with me across the Atlantic, and was my loyal study companion through years of school abroad. During my time overseas, I easily kept up to date with the growth and latest news from KSC, since the group has been so savvy from the get-go about embracing the powers of social media to extend its outreach. I vowed to give a little back to KSC when I returned to the region. I now volunteer a few times a month to look after the cats and thoroughly enjoy it every time! KSC is well organized, efficient, and clean, and the cats seem happy with their free range lifestyle in the open cat room.

I volunteer with King Street Cats and am always impressed by their dedication and tireless effort to improve the life of the cats in their care and to help them find their forever homes. I created and ran a wildlife rescue agency in South America, and understand the difficulties of running a rescue agency, especially when it is completely run by volunteers. The wonderful thing about volunteer run agencies is that they are often a bridge for individuals to find their passions. Volunteering and philanthropy help not only the cats in their care and the families they are united with, but have a broader effect on the community.

Great organization with excellent conviction for saving cats.

I've volunteered here on a handful of times over the previous year and everytime I do I always feel great after I leave. They treat their cats better than any cat/dog adoption organization I've ever been a part of. When I have visited other places in the past I always feel bad for the cats but I truely believe the cats enjoy their transition period at the KSC adoption center until they can find their permanent home. I love how the cats have the freedom to roam free and play with one another and gain social skills and get acclimated to other cats as well as people versus sitting isolated in a cage. There is no better organization that someone could help out with their free time.

I can't say enough WONDERFUL things about this organization. The group is totally committed to the care and well-being of every kitty they take in and to helping find a loving forever home. I have volunteered for KSC since 2010 and I am always impressed with selflessness that the volunteers exhibit. I look forward to continuing to assist them. Such a great cause!

I became a donor for several reason- one being I love and own cats, and I have a friend who volunteers there. I love their FaceBook updates...clever and cute photos of cats and kittens that need "forever" homes, success stories of adoptions. It really makes me feel like my donations make a difference. While I do not have the opportunity to volunteer (yet), I feel personally engaged in their efforts!

I've been a volunteer for almost a year now, helping out during weekend adoption events. The people are great, the cats even better. Doing what we do as an all volunteer-run organization, it's really amazing to see the people who come in and out that really love their animals and are looking for additional companions. Not going to lie, I've gotten attached to a few of the cats there who have been adopted and I've both loved to see them go to their new homes. It's a pleasure working with such a dedicated group of people.

I wanted to do more than work and sleep. I knew I personally needed to volunteer my time. I choose King Street Cats on a whim (A friend of a friend adopted 2 cats from them 10 years ago and had a positive experience.) Boy did I make the right decision. King Street Cats is a no kill, volunteer run cat shelter that always puts the needs of the cats 1st. The members of the board are fantastic and committed to making sure that all of the cats are taken care while waiting for their forever home. I look forward to going to the shelter on my day to volunteer. KSC is an awesome organization that make use of every cent donated.

King Street Cats is a unique free-roaming and no-kill cat orphanage. The cats are kittens are happy and ready for their new homes, and the volunteers are very educated and helpful during the pre and post-adoption process. This is a wonderful organization.