Bridget Doyle, TribLocal reporter

Throughout the month of September, the Hinsdale Humane Society is offering special themed daily deals on its cats and kittens for the first time in shelter history.

Jennifer Vlazny, operations manager for the shelter, said while coming up with the themed days and catchy specials was fun for shelter staff, the larger purpose is to move out the merchandise.

“Just like retail stores put things on sale to move the product out, we’re essentially doing the same thing — except our product happens to be furry, four-legged and wants to bring love into your life.”

The humane society, which has been struggling with cat overcrowding for most of the summer, still has full cages. Pam Salomone, special events director for the shelter, said kitten season (April through November) may be a contributing factor to the packed facility.  

Vlazny said she toyed around with different days and different deals for the cats. She chose to focus on showcasing specific types of cats to make them more appealing.

“Black cats and Tabby cats aren’t adopted as readily as say the more colorful orange or calico cats,” Vlazny said. “We want to help these cats that sometimes get overlooked stand out to potential adopters.”

Tuesdays are half-price tabbies, Wednesdays are half-price black cats, Thursdays are two for one kittens, Fridays are half-price fat cats (more than 10 pounds), On Saturdays, cats that have been in the shelter 30 days or longer are free. On Sundays, it’s name your own adoption fee.

“We’re really excited about kicking the specials off,” Salomone said. “We’re hoping the event will drive a lot of traffic and find new homes for the cats soon.”

The Hinsdale Humane Society, 22. N. Elm St., is open Tuesdays 2 to 8 p.m., Wednesdays through Fridays noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 630-323-5630 or go to hinsdalehumanesociety.org.

bdoyle@tribune.com