Cats have a way of becoming our comfort through everything. They curl up beside us during stressful days, follow us from room to room, and somehow always seem to know when we need quiet companionship most.

For survivors of domestic abuse, that bond can make leaving an unsafe situation even more difficult. Many people delay escaping abuse because they fear what could happen to their pets if they can’t bring them along, and that includes cats.

That’s why the Purple Leash Project is so important.

Created by Purina, the initiative helps support domestic violence shelters in becoming more pet-friendly, allowing survivors to seek safety without leaving beloved pets behind. Because cats aren’t “just pets”, they’re family, emotional support, and a source of stability during some of life’s hardest moments.

For cat lovers, the project is a powerful reminder that safe homes matter for both people and pets. Every cat deserves a secure place to land, and every person deserves the chance to leave danger without sacrificing that bond.

Learn more about the Purple Leash Project and how it’s helping keep families, including feline family members, together.