B.C. Workers Rally to Rescue Feral Cats Amid Mill Closure

Workers at a pulp mill in Crofton, British Columbia, are uniting to ensure the safety of the feral cats that call the facility home, following the announcement of the mill’s closure. In early December 2025, Domtar confirmed that it would shut down its operations, resulting in the loss of approximately 350 jobs on Vancouver Island. For many employees, including Tawni Marcil, the impending closure brings not only job insecurity but also concern for the well-being of the feral cats that have been cared for at the site.

Marcil, who has worked at the mill for 12 years, expressed her deep attachment to the cats. “It’s like coming to work and having pets that you love like your own at home,” she stated in an interview with CBC’s The National. Over the past month, she has taken the initiative to collaborate with local cat rescue organizations to capture the cats, find them new homes, and ensure they are not left behind when the mill ceases operations.

Efforts to Rescue Feral Cats

The Crofton mill has been operational for 68 years, and throughout its history, a population of feral cats has thrived on the property. According to ChekNews, the number of cats has significantly decreased over the years due to successful trap-neuter-release programs, leaving around 14 cats at the mill’s closure. Marcil took over the responsibility of caring for the cats after the retirement of the previous caretaker, making their well-being a routine part of her job.

“I felt like I was abandoning them, really. I just couldn’t do it,” Marcil said, reflecting on her commitment to the cats. Her efforts have been pivotal in the rescue mission. Kirsten Belday, founder of Foster Kritters Feral Cat Rescue, noted that Marcil’s presence has made it easier to trap the cats. “When I come down to try and trap them, they scatter. But because they know her and trust her, she’s been able to trap the majority of the cats for us,” Belday explained.

As the rescue team works to relocate the cats, they face challenges. Most of the felines are elderly, aged between 12 and 18 years, and many require medical attention, including dental work. Belday mentioned that the organization has funded these medical needs through local fundraising efforts, showcasing the community’s generosity despite the financial strain caused by the mill’s closure.

A New Beginning for the Cats

While only a few of the cats may be suitable for adoption, the others will find refuge at RAPS Cat Sanctuary in Richmond, B.C., where they will receive the care they need for the rest of their lives. The rescue efforts have already led to one success story. Elliot Cole, a retired instrument mechanic from the mill, has adopted a cat named Wasabi, whom he had cared for during his employment.

Cole took immediate action upon learning about the mill’s closure, reaching out to Marcil and expressing his desire to adopt Wasabi. “I met Kirsten on the Lake Cowichan Highway, and Wasabi was in his little cage there. He huddled right up to my leg. Like, he knew my voice and everything,” said Cole.

Now, Wasabi is adjusting to his new home, starting in the basement where Cole has provided a comfortable space for him. “I’ve read him The Da Vinci Code,” Cole joked, noting that Wasabi is gradually becoming more comfortable and accepting of affection.

As production at the mill ceased in early January 2026, the workers, including Marcil, are left to contemplate their futures. Despite the uncertainty, Marcil finds solace in knowing that the cats are being rescued and will be well cared for. “It was a big shock to everybody when it came. But, you know, you just move on,” she concluded.

The efforts of Marcil and her colleagues highlight the strong bond formed between workers and the feral cats at the mill, demonstrating a commitment to animal welfare even in the face of personal challenges.