deadmau5
Matt Barnes / Courtesy of Falcon PR
Electronic music icon and well-known feline enthusiast, deadmau5, has stepped up with a generous $30,000 donation to support the welfare of 27 rescued cats.
On May 27, the Humane Society of Oakville, Milton & Halton in Ontario, Canada, shared the urgent news that they had taken in 27 cats from a single household. Ranging from three-month-old kittens to three-year-old adults, none of the rescued animals had previously received veterinary care. The shelter launched a community appeal to raise $30,000 for critical medical needs, including intake exams, essential vaccinations, sterilization surgeries, microchipping, and the necessary care to prepare them for their future forever homes.
The response from the dance music legend—who is a devoted owner of three rescued cats and an active supporter of the Toronto Humane Society—was swift. Shortly after the announcement, deadmau5 commented on their post with a simple, impactful pledge: “I got you!”
“We’ve enjoyed many heartwarming moments at the shelter, but receiving a message from deadmau5 was certainly a surprise,” said Jeff Vallentin, executive director of HSOMH, in a statement to Billboard. “We are profoundly grateful for his financial contribution and for the incredible visibility he has provided for our shelter and the animals under our care. It is truly significant when an artist with such a massive platform uses their voice to advocate for animal welfare and educate the public on our daily mission.”
The producer’s commitment extended beyond the donation. On June 8, he took to his Instagram Stories to engage his fanbase, writing, “Help me name 27 cats! And then find them forever homes,” while sharing a link to a dedicated page where supporters can suggest names for the newcomers.
Vallentin emphasized that while the funds are life-changing for the cats, the community engagement sparked by the musician is equally invaluable. “We are particularly thrilled that deadmau5 invited his fans to participate in naming the cats and kittens. It provides a wonderful way to involve the public in these animals’ journeys, and we are eagerly awaiting the creative names they suggest.”
Beyond this rescue effort, deadmau5’s dedication to animal advocacy remains a priority. On June 2, marking the beginning of Adopt a Shelter Cat Month, he opened a special Reverb Shop featuring select music gear, concert memorabilia, and exclusive merchandise, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the no-kill non-profit, Toronto Cat Rescue.
