A new illustrated poetry book created by two Quadra Island artists is helping raise funds for a local animal rescue group.

The 80-page book, A Life Amongst Cats, is now available at Inspirations in Quathiaski Cove by donation, with proceeds supporting Quadra Cat Rescue.

The collection features dozens of original poems by Chris Thompson paired with cat-themed illustrations by Sophie Whittingham.

Project coordinator Marnie Griffiths says the book captures both the humour and emotional connection many people have with cats.

Whittingham, an illustrator and storyboard artist who works from her Quadra Island home for companies including Disney+ and DreamWorks TV, says her own cats - Gary and Shaun - inspired her to contribute to the project.

She says she and her partner can’t imagine life without their cats, and she’s grateful programs like Quadra Cat Rescue exist to help local animals find homes or receive support.

Copies of A Life Amongst Cats are available by donation, with a recommended minimum of $15.

All proceeds go toward Quadra Cat Rescue’s work helping reduce the number of homeless cats on the island.

The organization offers a lower cost spay and neuter program and raises money for veterinary care for stray cats and kittens, as well as food for animals in foster care.

Quadra Cat Rescue has been helping cats and kittens on the island since 2009.

The group says each year the number of kittens born on Quadra Island exceeds the number of local homes available to adopt them.

More information can be found at Quadra Cat Rescue.