It is the season for kittens and cats, and the Carter County Animal Shelter has the people covered.

Paulette Walters, with the Friends of the Shelter community group, has been volunteering at the shelter for several months. She said her love of animals prompted her to do something for the cats and kittens at the shelter.

“This is when a lot of kittens are born,” Walters said. “I saw a great need for help.”

The animal shelter on 135 Sycamore Shoals Drive frequently puts on events like this to help encourage participants to adopt the animals they have there, and this one will be no different, featuring reduced adoption rates for cats and kittens.

Director Shannon Posada said they currently have around 180 cats and kittens at the shelter.

“It is very important we adopt some of them out so they can find loving homes,” Posada said.

She said cats will go for $10 and kittens will go for $25. These costs include age-appropriate vaccinations, ear mite treatments, flea medication and more.

“We cannot thank her enough,” Posada said. “She is a wonderful lady, and we are very excited to have their support.”

Each adoption will also come with a spay/neuter voucher, for those who do not immediately opt for the service.

“We just need to bring attention to our shelter,” Walters said. “I have seen all the work they do.”

She said she hopes coming to the shelter during the luau will not only inspire others to adopt instead of buy but also to encourage others to volunteer at the shelter just like she does.

“When I visit there, there is so much to do,” Walters said. “I enjoy benefitting the animals by doing whatever I can.”

This volunteer work can be anything, and while sometimes that means cleaning out a dirty cage, it can also be as simple as spending time with the animals.

“It gives them socialization,” she said. “It is enjoyable.”

She said those looking to contribute to the shelter do not even have to volunteer time. Those interested can donate supplies as well, including food, toys or other equipment.

“There are lots of opportunities,” Walters said.

The Meow Luau will take place Saturday, June 22, from 1-3 p.m.

For those unable to make the event itself, the shelter is open from noon to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.

For more information about adoption services, contact the shelter at 423-547-6359.