Handcrafted feline furniture with a purpose
So happy to see you here! My name is Sarah and I'm the maker behind cozy kitty co. I started cozy kitty co. a few years ago with a goal to help as many cats as I could, while creating a variety of one-of-a-kind pieces for them to enjoy. I fell in love with the process of re-purposing unique pieces of wood a few years ago after making a cat scratcher from a fallen maple tree for my 2 cats, Floof & Lilo. I started working with different types of woods and building posts for other cats, too. From that point on, it grew and I knew what I wanted to do. When I’m not making cat furniture, I’m usually spending my free time working with a local 501(c)(3) non-profit cat rescue in Buffalo, NY. Since starting my volunteer journey, I’ve had the opportunity to work with hundreds of animals (& even some penguins) - an experience I’ll forever hold dear to my heart. Animal welfare and rescue work has been the driving factor for all my work. While my academic background focuses on sustainability, animal welfare, & conservation, rescue work has remained at the core of daily life. It wasn’t until after college that I learned about the reality that still exists in one specific industry. An industry that I thought had died a long time ago - the fur farming trade in the U.S. With animals being my world, I began researching further into the cruelty that exists. I knew I had to speak up, spread the word, and advocate for these animals in any way I could. It was then that I realized that no matter how small my attempt was, anything at all was better than ignoring it and pretending it isn’t happening. Through my little corner of the world, I’ve decided to use my art to spread awareness to something that needs attention. Contrary to popular belief, fur farming is still alive and well in the United States, with captive bred foxes being the target. Captive-bred foxes are animals raised in captivity, often for the fur trade, research, or as exotic pets. Today, there are over 56 fox fur farms in 10+ states in the U.S. alone. Every year over 1,500 foxes are killed for their pelts. Some states don't even require a permit to operate a fur farm, and there are currently no federal regulations overseeing the care or treatment of these animals. A captive bred fox, while not a wild animal, is still 100% fox and instinctually acts like a fox. This makes these animals amazing, wonderful and very different from a traditional domestic pet. Though there are many characteristics that differentiate these species, the welfare for the animal remains consistent. This is the part that contributes to these animals remaining not only misunderstood, but also subject to a vast lack of protection. It’s what differentiates this species from more commonly owned domesticated pets, like cats and dogs.
The purpose –- Knowledge is power, and heartfelt initiative inspires change. Recognition contributes to ongoing efforts to rescue more animals, raise awareness, and ultimately offer countless animals the opportunity for long, joyful, and fulfilling lives. No act is too small. Through my art work and with the help of social media, I hope to shine light on, and share stories that bring hope to a too often discouraging reality. Working with vulnerable animals entails a great deal of hardship, but it also shapes miracles. There are tens of thousands of animal-focused non profit 501(c)(3) organizations actively involved in and committed to positive change for animals who otherwise had no voice. Awareness continues to connect us to change, and be a noble part of the mission to a more sustainable and compassionate world. What we care about and how we impact the world around us is our greatest superpower. It’s this intention that has allowed cozy kitty co. to flourish, and blossom.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for supporting my craft.
With love,
Sarah
