Rescue & recovery
A safe setting, patient care, and time to recover. Each cat’s needs guide their care and next steps.
Care first. Always.
A dedicated rescue and care space within The Valley, built around safety, recovery, and a home for cats who need one.
A sanctuary built around the cats.
Development happens in phases. For the current picture on access, adoption inquiries, and intake, see the sanctuary status.
A quieter place to belong.
The sanctuary has its own space and care routines within The Valley in Southwest Missouri. It is separate from creek-day activities and overnight guest areas.
Development happens in phases as care areas, quarantine space, staffing, and safe routines are ready. Contact the team for the current stage and ways to help.
Foster & adoption
Cats ready for family life can follow a foster or adoption path. Others can remain protected as residents.
Coordinated access
Visiting, volunteering, and care tasks happen only in confirmed windows. A Valley creek visit does not include sanctuary access.
No animal drop-offs
Never leave an animal at the property. Every intake inquiry needs a direct conversation and confirmed acceptance.
Good questions. Clear answers.
Before you reach out.
Is the Joplin lounge still open?
No. The Joplin lounge has closed. Nine Lives is moving fully to The Valley Cat Sanctuary, which is in development.
Can I visit the sanctuary?
Sanctuary access is arranged directly with the team. There are no walk-in lounge visits. Ask about current arrangements and wait for confirmation before coming to the property.
Does a Valley creek visit include the sanctuary?
No. The sanctuary is separate from regular creek-day and overnight guest areas. Cat care and approved care schedules come first.
Can I bring a cat to the property?
Never leave an animal at the property. Intakes are paused during the transition. Every intake inquiry needs a direct conversation with the team and explicit acceptance before any arrival.
How can I help as the sanctuary develops?
Ask about volunteer opportunities, foster or adoption interest, sponsorships, and needed supplies. Please coordinate supply donations before bringing them.
Are the resident cats available for adoption?
Our resident profiles describe cats with a permanent home in our care. Ask the team about cats ready for adoption and the current placement process.
When will the sanctuary open?
An opening date has not been announced here. The sanctuary is being developed in phases around appropriate care spaces, staffing, and safe routines. Contact the team for current updates.