Cat Angel Refuge

Cat Angel Refuge is a registered non-profit company (NPC 2017/285601/08) based in Zeerust, North West Province, South Africa. We serve as a vital, open-admission lifeline for abandoned, injured, and abused animals across the vast, underserved Ramotshere Moiloa District. Crucially, we are the sole operational, open-admission animal welfare provider in the entire district, meaning there is no alternative service for animals in crisis. Our mission is defined by our commitment to Dignity in life, dignity in death." With a proven record in cruelty prevention, community education, and ethical shelter management. Cat Angel Refuge began as Angels Refuge in Mafikeng in 2011, originally focusing on intensive care for kittens, puppies, and special-needs animals. In 2017, the organization rebranded, renamed and focused exclusively on cats and feral populations before the overwhelming need in the Zeerust area led to becoming fully open-admission in 2020—never turning away any animal (dogs, cats, livestock, or wildlife), regardless of space or finances. In 2021, the refuge relocated to Zeerust, and in 2023, the property was purchased outright, registered in the name of Cat Angel Refuge with no bond, ensuring long-term stability. The organization is led by Joanne Wilson and Karen Wilson, both of whom hold magisterial authorization as Animal Welfare Inspectors for the Ramotshere Moiloa District. They are also registered with the South African Veterinary Council to humanely perform emergency euthanasia. Cat Angel Refuge is an Internationally Recognised Rabies Centre of Excellence. Furthermore, Director Joanne Wilson successfully completed the intensive Battersea UK Dog and Cat Shelter Management Programme in London, ensuring adherence to global best-practice standards.