World-famous Toronto DJ deadmau5, whose real name is Joel Zimmerman, has donated $30,000 to an Oakville animal shelter to cover the medical care of 36 recently surrendered cats. The donation was made to the Humane Society of Oakville, Milton and Halton after the organization put out an urgent appeal for funding.
How the Donation Happened
Calla James, the humane society's director of communications and community engagement, recalled the moment they realized the donor was the renowned electronic music producer. On May 29, the shelter had posted a plea for $30,000 on social media. Two days later, a verified account commented simply, 'I got you!' The social media coordinator recognized the name and confirmed it was indeed deadmau5.
'We were incredibly blown away by his generosity,' James said. The initial shock and excitement turned into gratitude as the conversation continued.
Details of the Rescue
The shelter first received 27 kittens and cats, ranging in age from three months to three years, from a single home in Milton on May 28. Another nine cats were surrendered from the same location the following week. The family could no longer care for all of them and reached out for support.
One of the cats required immediate emergency surgery for pyometra, a life-threatening uterine infection. The procedure was performed quickly, and the cat is now recovering. The other 35 cats are in good health and are receiving wellness exams, parasite treatment, vaccines, and will eventually be spayed or neutered.
Deadmau5's Cat Connection
Fans of deadmau5 know he is a cat lover. His beloved cat, Professor Meowingtons, who appeared in his music videos and album covers, passed away in 2023 at age 16. This donation reflects his ongoing compassion for animals.
Naming Contest and Ongoing Support
In addition to the financial donation, deadmau5 launched a contest on his Patreon page inviting fans to help name the cats before they are ready for adoption. This initiative has generated significant engagement and brought widespread attention to the shelter's work.
'Just the sheer reach that he has helped us with has been incredible,' James noted. The humane society is a non-profit organization that does not receive government funding and relies entirely on public donations to provide animal care.
With the addition of these 36 cats, the shelter now cares for 101 cats and kittens. Those wishing to donate can do so in person at the animal centre at 445 Cornwall Rd. in Oakville or online at hsomh.ca/27cats.
