In light of debate over the kill rate for healthy cats at the facility, the Lincoln County Humane Society is reporting a dramatic increase in adoptions for 2012.

Two hundred and 67 more cats have found homes this year, for a grand total of 577.

Last year, 310 felines were adopted.

At the same time, the LCHS has partnered with the Ontario SPCA to open a high volume spay and neuter clinic in St. Catharines.

The one year pilot project is an effort to reduce the over population crisis in Ontario.

The clinic will be located at 160 Fourth Avenue in the south-west part of the city and will begin services this December.

The LCHS says everyone will be welcome regardless of geography or income level.

St. Catharines councillors recently endorsed a motion urging the Lincoln County Humane Society to stop euthanizing healthy cats, which is used as a means of population control.

The facility says they have lowered their kill rates over 20% with progressive and creative adoption programs.

 The Lincoln County Humane Society is also expanding its cat and kitten foster program to be better equipped to handle litters of unwanted kittens, preparing them for adoption.

Anyone interested in becoming a foster parent is invited to email catfoster@lchs.ca to apply.