Four Paws offers a haven for special-needs cats

Many people view a chronically ill, disabled or special needs cat as a burden, but at Four Paws Namibia, they see them as lives in need of love and a forever home.

Four Paws was established in 2019 when Willem Esterhuysen, the founder and CEO, noticed how many special-needs cats were overlooked in local shelters when it came to finding their forever homes.

Determined to make a difference, he started Four Paws.

“We realised that if we didn’t create a sanctuary specifically for the specialised, the disabled, and the chronically ill, these beautiful souls would have nowhere else to go,” he explained.

Four Paws currently cares for 179 permanent resident cats, all requiring specialised attention.

It began as a rescue centre but has since evolved into a sanctuary for cats with a wide range of special needs, including physical disabilities, chronic illnesses and neurological conditions. Over time, the focus shifted to providing a permanent home.

“Our goal is to be a true forever home,” Esterhuysen explained.

He said the plan is to create a world-class facility where medical needs are met with expertise.

"Four Paws Namibia was born from a refusal to accept that 'broken' means 'disposable'," he said.

"We also don't measure life by physical perfection, but by the strength of the spirit.”

The centre aims to expand the sanctuary and create purpose-built spaces for its resident cats.

“This expansion isn't just about more space; it's about better quality of life for our current 179 residents and opening our doors to the many more needy cats,” Esterhuysen said.

As a non-profit organisation, Four Paws relies on donations and the generosity of the public to care for its cats.

“Maintaining a home for 179 residents, many with complex medical needs, requires a village,” he added.

For any enquiries, contact Willem Esterhuysen at 081 849 7710.