On my recent visit to Hawaii I made sure to take a day trip to Lanai, a place with less crowds, beautiful beaches and where the cats, also known as Lanai’s Little Lions, live.

Kitty paradise awaited at Lanai Cat Sanctuary a non-profit community service organization, founded in 2008 whose mission is to assist animals by “providing sustenance, foster homes, shelter, adoptions, veterinary care, spay/neuter services and humane education.”

Lanai Cat Sanctuary is reliant on awesome volunteers, staff and donations to help pay for food, supplies, medicine and the shelter, which is growing since they built their “permanent” structure in October of 2009.

The greeting committee at LARC

What greets you upon arrival is something made of cat lovers and feline dreams. The warm climate allows for an amazing outdoor space full of cat cubicles for sleeping or hiding in, jungle gyms, bridges, baskets and lots of natural elements conducive to kitty happiness like trees and tall grass.

The 15,000-square-foot space is enclosed by a perimeter fence which ensures all cats remain safely inside. All are free roaming except those being newly acclimatized to the group or ones with FIV, who get their own special accommodations within the generous enclosure.

Special accommodations for cats waiting for a vet visit

A separate house exists strictly for cats that are being treated for an illness or that will be getting a vet check, this ensures they get the help they need and are easier to find among the 300 – 400 cats currently housed at any time at the rescue center.

Yes we all get along! One of the many cat approved resting areas.

Lanai Cat Sanctuary is a place where abandoned, abused and stray cats find refuge in peaceful surroundings and where you will find a multitude of cats just hanging out… and getting along. The “litter box” along the perimeter of the enclosure is brilliant, it consists of a home-made mixture that includes local pine tree needles which means there is no odor.

Practicing my cat herding technique with a little help from some treats.

As a tourist visiting Lanai you can opt to get your cat fix daily, no appointment required, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you are staying at the Four Season on Lanai they can arrange these visits for you through the resorts volunteerism program, or you can arrange an individual visit like I did and be lucky enough to have the cats all to yourself. If you live on the Island then becoming part of the their community as a regular volunteer is also an option.

The cat tree with baskets makes a perfect spot for an afternoon nap

If you fall love with one or more cats, this is almost guaranteed, you can elect to adopt/sponsor a cat in place or adopt and bring a cat home. Be sure to visit their wish list to see what items are needed and you can always opt to bring cat toys and treats in your suitcase like I did.

Splendor in the grass – the cats make a nest in the long grass

Founder Kathy Carroll with Slater girl who is a really snuggle bug! She is also available for adoption.

Founder Kathy Carrol is supported by many dedicated volunteers and staff who are key to helping Lanai Cat Sanctuary run smoothly and who also give the cats lots of love and attention.

Be sure to check out their Facebook page for updates and events and, follow them on Instagram for your daily dose of tropical feline photos.