Action Volunteers For Animals

Home
Canada
Pickering, ON
Action Volunteers For Animals

Action Volunteers for Animals (AVA) is a non-profit, volunteer-only, foster-based no-kill charitable animal rescue organization.

AVA is dedicated to improving the lives of stray and feral cats and companion animals. AVA began in 1972 and became a registered charity in 1981. Main areas of work are: Trap/Neuter/Return/Maintain, Fostering and Adoption, Information and Support

08/27/2026

Todays are Marcus ❤️and Mortimer ❤️, an adorable pair of bonded kittens.

Name: Marcus (M), Mortimer (M)
Age: 6 months
Breed: Domestic Shorthair
Colour: Marcus-brown and black marbled tabby; Mortimer-brown spotted tabby with white
Location: West Scarborough PetSmart, 2050 Eglinton Ave. E. at Warden Ave.
For more information: avacats.org/adopt

Marcus and Mortimer were born in a foster home, so they’ve grown up surrounded by people and are very social and affectionate. They’re easy to pick up and, when they’re not busy playing, they’ll happily curl up in your lap for a cuddle.

Marcus is a striking kitten with sleek, soft fur in a beautiful marble pattern, complete with a circular swirl on each side. His facial markings, prominent muzzle and spotted whisker pads give him a touch of “wildcat” charm, but don’t be fooled—he’s a sweet boy, with just a dash of playful mischief. Marcus has slight film on his left eye—he’s always had it, and it doesn’t affect his ability to enjoy life.

Mortimer is equally handsome with lighter fur in a spotted pattern, a snowy white chest and mitts, and a gentle, open expression. While Marcus tends to be the more confident and energetic of the pair, Mortimer is soft-natured and always ready for some cuddles. Both are brimming with kitten energy and love playing with wand toys, chasing sponge balls or wrestling with each other, and then curling up together for a well-deserved nap.

Marcus and Mortimer are bonded and must go home together. They depend on each other for comfort, companionship and security. Their playful antics will make you laugh and their obvious affection for one another will warm your heart.

Would you like to make Marcus and Mortimer a part of your family? Please complete our online application found at: www.avacats.org/adoption-application-form.

Our adoption fees cover vetting and include spay/neuter, age-appropriate vaccines (initial FVRCP and rabies), flea treatment, two deworming treatments and microchipping.

Adoption fees are $275 for each kitten up to 12 months old. Please note that fees may apply for additional required vaccinations (at $75 per booster) due prior to adoption. Total adoption fees will be confirmed by the AVA Adoption Coordinator.

08/26/2026

Meet today’s Bette! 🤍

Name: Bette
Age: 4 years 6 months
Breed: Domestic Medium Hair/Mix
Colour: White/Charcoal
Location: PetSmart Colossus

Bette was TNR'd in October of 2023, but was retrapped recently because her timid nature is not suitable for colony life. She came from a cat colony consisted of 2 mother cats and 6 kittens. She can be adopted with any of her colony mates, Tessa, Tara or Beaux, all currently adoptable at Colossus, or go home to calm, friendly cats happy to be her guide and companion for life.

With medium-long coat of white with charcoal grey patches and streaks, Bette is a distinctive beauty with a super-shy temperament. Her big, golden eyes express her timid view of life, and she finds security in the recess of a cubby or a nest of blankets. However, she can be picked up and held, and really enjoys being petted. Her passive nature will require a patient family willing to work within her comfort zone, and the reassuring presence of a friendly, gentle cat will go a long way to help settle this shy girl down.

If you have experience with and are willing to help shy cats like Bette, she would be so grateful to be out of the elements and safely in a space she can settle into and slowly show her sweet nature. All creatures will respond to love and security given time, and Bette too, deserve a chance at a peaceful, stable life.

Would you like to make Bette a part of your family? Please complete our online application found at: https://www.avacats.org/adoption-application-form

Our adoption fees cover vetting and include spay/neuter, vaccines (initial FVRCP and rabies), flea treatment, two dewormings and microchipping.

Adoption fees are $250 for each adult cat 1 year or older. Please note that fees may apply for additional required vaccinations (at $75 per booster) due prior to adoption. Total adoption fees will be confirmed by the AVA Adoption Coordinator.

08/24/2026

Another week, another round of happy endings.

These sweet cats have found their forever families and are already settling into their new lives. We’re so happy to see them exactly where they belong — home.

Congratulations to all! 💛

08/20/2026

Today, we would like to tell you about a brave kitten named Poppy and ask for your help.

At just 5 or 6 weeks old, tiny Poppy was found stranded in the middle of a busy road—severely injured, unable to move and terrified. She was rushed to an emergency veterinary clinic where doctors performed an urgent procedure to release trapped air around her lungs so she could breathe. This was two months ago.

Poppy spent the first month under 24-hour veterinary supervision due to her young age and severe injuries. In the first few weeks, she needed intensive medical support, including manual bladder expressions when she couldn't urinate on her own. Veterinary specialists, including neurologists and orthopedic surgeons were consulted to assess her injuries.

Through it all, Poppy has been a very brave and resilient girl. Now Poppy is facing another big hurdle. Her medical team determined that her right hind leg must be amputated because she has no feeling at all in that leg. This surgery was delayed because little Poppy needed to grow more before the surgery could be safely performed. Now, she’s ready!

Between her emergency procedures, specialists, and month-long stay in 24-hour care, her medical bills have mounted significantly—and now she faces the cost of her upcoming amputation surgery and post-op care.

Please help this brave little kitten to have the bright future she deserves. Every dollar helps and sharing Poppy’s story means the world to us. Thank you for opening your heart to help Poppy stand strong on three little legs! 🌺 ❤️

Ways to donate:

You can donate through Canada Helps at this link: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/16085

Or, you can send an e-transfer directly to [email protected]; it is registered for auto-deposit so a password is not required. Please include your full name, address, and email address in the Message line and AVA will issue a tax receipt for donations over $20.

08/19/2026

Meet today’s Mousse (*solo kitty)! 🩶

Name: Mousse
Age: 10 months
Breed: Domestic Shorthair/Mix
Colour: Blue/White
Location: PetSmart Stockyards

Meet Mousse, a striking little observer with a playful streak and a mind of her own.

At 10 months old, Mousse is a beautiful charcoal grey kitten with a crisp white patch on her chest and truly unforgettable eyes - shades of yellow, green, and blue blending around her iris in a way that stops you in your tracks. She's the kind of cat people notice right away.

Mousse is a thoughtful, independent girl who prefers to take in the world at her own pace. She's not overly clingy, which makes her a great match for someone who appreciates a more low-maintenance companion. She enjoys being near her people, sharing space, and will reward gentle chin rubs with a soft, subtle purr. She's becoming more affectionate by the day. Although still an independent thinker, she'll often find a spot next to her people on the couch and just hang out and come to you for affection. She's even taken to long naps on an available lap!

When it's playtime, though, she comes alive. Mousse loves interactive play, especially laser pointers and wand toys and has a blast running, chasing, and showing off her speed. She thrives with someone who can engage with her, as she prefers playtime together over playing solo. She can be active in the nights so be prepared for some Midnight Zoomies!

She's a polite cat but sometimes can be chatty and enjoys having a conversation with her people. If she's not in the mood for handling, she'll let you know with a small growl or a gentle nip, usually followed by sweet little licks, her way of keeping things fair. She's learning boundaries and does best with someone who respects her signals. But left alone for too long, she'll let you know with cute little chirps that she misses you.

Mousse is hit and miss with other cats and can be a bit dominant as she has a strong personality. She is brave and will explore new spaces relatively quickly.

Mousse is also a big fan of dry food, has excellent litter habits, and keeps things simple when it comes to care.

She's the perfect match for someone who appreciates a cat with personality, independent but playful, quiet but expressive, and full of subtle charm. Mousse will make a truly special companion for the right family.

Would you like to make Mousse a part of your family? Please complete our online application found at: https://www.avacats.org/adoption-application-form

Our adoption fees cover vetting and include spay/neuter, vaccines (initial FVRCP and rabies), flea treatment, two dewormings and microchipping.

Adoption fees are $275 for each kitten up to 12 months old. Please note that fees may apply for additional required vaccinations (at $75 per booster) due prior to adoption. Total adoption fees will be confirmed by the AVA Adoption Coordinator.

08/18/2026

Forever homes have been found! 🏡

Our adopted kitties are officially settled in with their new families and starting their next chapter. We couldn’t be happier for these lucky little ones!

Wishing them a lifetime of love, cuddles, and happy memories 💛

08/16/2026

Misty is a mystery. ❤️

We are still trying to solve the mystery of what is happening with this little girl. When Misty came to us, she couldn’t get up or use her back legs, and despite extensive testing and treatment, we didn’t have a clear answer as to why. We are still putting the pieces together, one day at a time, and hoping that her response to treatment will help us understand what she is fighting and, most importantly, how we can help her recover.

Misty was found by her feeder, who saw her lying on the grass with her head tilted backward. She was unable to get up or use her back legs. Her feeder immediately reached out to AVA for help, and Misty was brought to Napa Valley Animal Hospital.

She was started on IV fluids, given medications and injections, and underwent blood work. Unfortunately, her blood work showed that she has several health issues, but none of them could explain why she had suddenly lost the ability to walk or use her back legs.

After a week of trying other treatments, a new X-ray showed some fluid in her abdomen. Combined with the neurological symptoms she was experiencing, the doctor became concerned about neurological FIP (Feline Infectious Peritonitis) and decided to start treatment.

Today is Day 4 of Misty’s FIP treatment. She still cannot use her back legs but with a little help from her foster, Misty was able to take a few steps and use her back legs. ❤️

We know she still has sensation in those legs, so we are hopeful that as the treatment begins to take effect, she will continue to regain strength and function. Right now, she is not yet able to use the litter box on her own, but we are hoping that soon she will be able to stand, walk, and regain some independence.

Here is a video of Misty trying to get up and take those few precious steps. Just days ago, she couldn’t even get herself up or use her back legs. Today, she tried. And to us, that is a reason to keep hoping. ❤️

Misty is a sweet girl who has already been through so much. She deserves the chance to recover, live a normal life, and one day find a loving forever home.

Please keep Misty in your prayers. 🙏❤️

And if you are able to donate toward her treatment and care, please consider helping her. Her recovery is only possible because of the people who continue to stand behind her.

Every donation, every prayer, and every bit of support gives Misty another chance. ❤️🐾

https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/action-volunteers-for-animals/

08/15/2026

🐾 Meet Nicholas! 🧡

Age: 4 years & 1 month
Breed: Domestic Medium Hair/Mix
Colour: Orange
Location: PetSmart Airport Rd

Nicholas is a stunning 4-year-old buff ginger gentleman with luxurious medium-length fur, adorable ear tufts and a spectacular fluffy tail that deserves a fan club of its own! 😻

Nicholas was rescued as a wandering tom after injuries he sustained became apparent. During his rehabilitation, he showed just how much he enjoys the company of other cats and quickly blossomed in his foster home.

He absolutely loves being around people and is happiest when he’s close to his humans. Nicholas can be a little hesitant about being picked up, but with patience, reassurance and a few tasty treats, his confidence continues to grow. He’s also quite the chatty boy and will happily let you know when he’d like some attention, food or company! 🥰

Nicholas is very food motivated, adores wet food and treats, and enjoys wand and spring toys. When playtime is over, you’ll often find him perched high on a cat tree, supervising the foster room with his magnificent fluffy tail hanging over the edge.

He’s also a wonderful feline companion and has thoroughly enjoyed living with other cats. He particularly loves the playful energy of Pom Pom, while also appreciating the calm company of the gentle females. A home with another friendly, social cat would be ideal for Nicholas. 🐱🐱

He has impeccable litter box manners, keeps his beautiful coat well groomed and has made himself comfortable in every cozy spot he can find. But what Nicholas really wants is a forever home of his own. ❤️

Could you be the one to tell Nicholas, “It’s your turn to go home!”? 🏡🐾

If Nicholas sounds like your perfect match, complete an adoption application:
https://www.avacats.org/adoption-application-form

Adoption fee: $250 for adult cats 1 year and older. Adoption fees include spay/neuter, vaccines, flea treatment, deworming and microchipping.

08/14/2026

💚 A BIG THANK YOU to Pet Valu on Major Mackenzie Dr in Maple! 🐾

AVA is so grateful for your continued and generous support of our rescue, our foster families, and all the cats and kittens in our care. Your donations help keep our kitties happy, healthy and well fed!

Thank you for always supporting AVA and helping us make a difference, one kitty at a time. We truly appreciate you! 🐾

08/13/2026

Today’s are Lizzy, a tiny dynamo, and her calm mum Iggy, two contrasting personalities that combine to make a delightful pair. 💖 💖

Name: Lizzy (F), Iggy (F)
Age: Iggy - 13 months, Lizzy: - 4 months
Breed: Domestic Shorthair
Colour: Iggy-ticked tan with faint brown and orange tabby markings; Lizzy-Calico
Location: West Scarborough PetSmart, 2050 Eglinton Ave. E. at Warden Ave.
For more information: avacats.org/adopt

Iggy is a sweet girl who was rescued as a young, pregnant stray. When her litter was born, sadly, Lizzy was the only kitten who survived. As a result, Iggy now plays the dual role of Lizzy’s mother and playmate. Quiet and reserved, Iggy has made steady progress getting used to life with people. She enjoys attention, likes being petted, and, of course, loves playing and wrestling with Lizzy.

Born in foster care and raised around people, Lizzy is friendly and full of character. It is hard to believe such a small kitten can have such a big personality. Confident, playful, and affectionate, she will keep you smiling with her antics as she leaps for the prize at the end of a wand toy, chases foam balls, or races around to burn off energy. She may be the smallest cat in the room, but she has no trouble holding her own with the others.

Lizzy gets along with other cats but isn’t too keen on sharing her toys. When another cat approaches her when she’s playing with a toy, Lizzy will let out a surprisingly deep warning growl that will have you looking around for a jungle cat 🐯 😸. But, if another cat is playing with something interesting, Lizzy doesn’t hesitate to jump right in. If she could, Lizzy would play with all the toys at once.

Lizzy is super sweet and loves to be petted. She can be held briefly, but soon wriggles out your arms so she can get back to the important business of playing.

Iggy and Lizzy would love to go home together. Being with her outgoing kitten Lizzy will help Iggy adapt more quickly and gain the confidence to reveal her sweet nature. Iggy has been Lizzy’s only companion since she was born, and her presence is comforting to Lizzy. If you are interested in adoption, why not come and meet Lizzy and Iggy at the West Scarborough PetSmart -- 2050 Eglinton Ave. East at Warden Ave.

Would you like to make Lizzy and Iggy a part of your family? Please complete our online application found at: www.avacats.org/adoption-application-form.

Our adoption fees cover vetting and include spay/neuter, age-appropriate vaccines (initial FVRCP and rabies), flea treatment, two deworming treatments and microchipping.

Adoption fees are $275 for each kitten up to 12 months old and $250 for each cat one year or older. Please note that fees may apply for additional required vaccinations (at $75 per booster) due prior to adoption. Total adoption fees will be confirmed by the AVA Adoption Coordinator.

Address

Pickering, ON
L1V0B8

Website

https://www.canadahelps.org/dn/16085, https://www.tiktok.com/@ava_cat_rescue?_r=1&_t=ZS-934xUXjolDI, https://www.instagr

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Action Volunteers For Animals posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Action Volunteers For Animals:

Want your organization to be the top-listed Non Profit Organization in Pickering?