Alfred Station started with two pregnant cats
By: Johanna Elattar
In the small, close-knit community of Alfred Station, Lazy and Crazy Cat Rescue stands as a testament to one woman’s dedication to protecting and improving the lives of cats and kittens in Allegheny and Steuben Counties. Founded by Bambie Knouse in June 2024, this independent rescue focuses on spay/neuter initiatives, cat adoption, and community education to address the needs of local stray and feral cats. What began as a small endeavor with just two pregnant cats has blossomed into a full-fledged rescue operation, powered by a strong commitment to reducing the homeless cat population and making veterinary care accessible and affordable.
Bambie Knouse’s journey began with her mentor, Elizabeth Oliver of Cozy Cats and Kittens in Hornell, where she first volunteered. Her time with Cozy Cats was eye-opening and inspiring, offering her firsthand experience in cat rescue, fostering, and the importance of spaying and neutering. With this guidance, Bambie felt compelled to start her own rescue, taking the step to create Lazy and Crazy Cat Rescue after caring for those first two pregnant cats, who gave birth to six kittens between them. From that initial experience, her goal was clear: to create a rescue that could not only shelter cats but also address the larger issue of overpopulation through a proactive approach.
Since becoming official in June 2024, Lazy and Crazy Cat Rescue has become a pivotal part of the community, especially in its commitment to TNR, or trap, neuter, and return. TNR is a humane method of managing feral cat colonies, reducing their numbers gradually while allowing the cats to continue living safely in their territories. For stray cats, the rescue seeks loving adoptive homes, and for community cats, TNR helps prevent the cycle of unwanted litters. In collaboration with local low-cost clinics in Alfred Station, Bambie has made spay and neuter procedures more accessible to those in her community who might otherwise struggle to afford these essential services.
The mission at Lazy and Crazy Cat Rescue extends beyond TNR and adoption. Bambie and her team are dedicated to making veterinary care more affordable and accessible for all. With limited resources, the rescue has relied heavily on the support of low-cost clinics, donations, and occasional community grants, but more financial support is still needed to meet the growing demands of the rescue.
Lazy and Crazy Cat Rescue is very much a family affair, and Bambie’s daughter Lilly, just 15 years old, plays an essential role. Lilly works closely with her mother, helping in every area of the rescue, from socializing kittens to setting up booths at the Alfred Farmer’s Market, where they conduct community outreach and educate the public. The Farmer’s Market is a perfect venue for the rescue to connect with people, not only to showcase the cats and kittens available for adoption but also to inform the public about responsible pet ownership, the benefits of TNR, and the importance of spaying and neutering.
Education is at the heart of Lazy and Crazy’s outreach efforts, especially given the disturbing trend Bambie has observed in her years of work: the tendency for people to give cats and kittens as gifts, particularly during the holidays. Many of these animals are later abandoned when the novelty wears off. Bambie has seen too many instances of people “throwing away” cats, leaving them to fend for themselves on the streets. She is a firm believer that animals are not disposable, and her rescue is determined to spread this message to prevent further neglect and abandonment.
Currently, the rescue operates out of Bambie’s home, though her dream is to one day move to a dedicated facility. At present, there are 12 cats in foster homes and 13 cats awaiting adoption within the rescue. Bambie also oversees two large colonies of feral cats, where she provides regular feeding and TNR services. Every cat in her care has a story, but the mama cats, in particular, have left an indelible mark on her heart. Each one of these feline mothers has brought Bambie unique memories, embodying resilience and the nurturing spirit that she has come to admire.
To adopt a cat from Lazy and Crazy Cat Rescue, prospective pet parents must complete a comprehensive application process. This process includes reference checks, landlord approval for renters, and existing veterinary records if they have other pets. For those interested in meeting the available cats and kittens, the rescue’s Facebook page, aptly named “Lazy and Crazy Cat Rescue,” serves as a hub where the latest adoptable cats are showcased. The adoption process is thorough, ensuring that each animal is placed in a responsible, loving home where it can thrive.
However, the rescue faces considerable challenges. With few donations, it can be difficult to cover the costs of TNR, food, and other supplies. Bambie is grateful for the community support she does receive, but as the need continues to grow, so does the need for funding. In addition to financial support, the rescue urgently needs more foster homes and TNR volunteers. Finding low-cost veterinary clinics remains one of the rescue’s most persistent challenges, but Bambie remains committed to her vision.
For Bambie, the most rewarding part of her work is the transformation she sees in the kittens who come through her rescue. Many arrive fearful, withdrawn, and even sick, but with time, care, and socialization, they blossom into affectionate, confident cats ready for a loving home. The joy of seeing a once-timid kitten adopted by a caring family is what keeps her going, despite the hardships.
Lazy and Crazy Cat Rescue has already made a significant impact in Allegeny and Steuben Counties, but there is so much more to be done. For those who are able, Bambie welcomes any support, whether it’s through donations, volunteering, fostering, or simply sharing her message. She hopes that with continued dedication, education, and community support, she can move her rescue forward, helping even more cats find safety, security, and a forever home.
For those looking to adopt, donate, or volunteer, please contact Bambie at (716) 498-1205, or email her at mom2tyndoll@yahoo.com
