Introducing 'Necovice': Japan's First Cat Care Consultation App for Cat Lovers

Launch of 'Necovice' on Cat Day

On February 22, 2026, coinciding with Cat Day, YaoKi Shoji Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, proudly unveils 'Necovice'—Japan's first consultation app where experienced cat volunteers offer advice on cat care. This innovative app aims to address various challenges that cat owners face in their daily lives, creating a harmonious coexistence between humans and their feline companions.

Addressing the Growing Need for Cat Care Support

With an increasing number of individuals welcoming cats into their families, the market for cat-related services is expanding. However, many new owners lack the necessary knowledge and may fall prey to misleading information circulating on social media. Compounding this issue is the limited availability of resources for lifestyle and behavior inquiries that do not pertain to medical conditions. To bridge this gap, 'Necovice' engages a team of seasoned cat volunteers as advisors, providing practical solutions and support for a variety of everyday concerns from litter box issues to caring for kittens.

Sustainability of Volunteer Efforts

The sustainability of charitable cat rescue efforts has become a pressing topic. According to statistics from the Ministry of the Environment, 4,866 cats were euthanized in the fiscal year 2021—the lowest number recorded to date. This achievement is attributed to amendments in animal welfare legislation and the unwavering efforts of numerous volunteers. However, many dedicated volunteers often bear the financial burden of providing care and rescue, which poses significant challenges to the continuation of their noble work. The 'Necovice' app aims to create a revenue model that capitalizes on the expertise of volunteers, ensuring that more cats can be saved in the future.

Features of 'Necovice'

- Consultation Matching: Users can post their concerns on the request page, and qualified advisors can choose to respond, ensuring a personalized consultation experience.
- Non-Face-to-Face Consultations: All communications occur within the app's chat feature, allowing users to share images and videos for more effective consultations.
- One-on-One Consultations: Each consultation is conducted in a one-on-one format, preventing confusion and conflicting advice.
- Specialized Advice: The app focuses on providing advice rather than direct rescue or fieldwork, helping users understand how to approach situations like cat trapping.

Voices from the Advisors

Akiko Okuyasu from the Castle Town Cat Association

Based in Wakayama City, Akiko has participated in TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) efforts and has successfully matched over 1,600 cats with adoptive families. She offers ongoing support, including behavioral consultations and assistance in cat recovery during escapes. As a 'Necovice' advisor, she is eager to address the concerns of cat owners and work together for the wellbeing of cats.

WASAO from Tokyo Cat Welfare

WASAO, a dedicated cat welfare volunteer, shares insights gained from caring for a cat with feline leukemia. With a focus on preventive care and early treatment, WASAO also strives to create pathways for sick cats at risk of euthanasia. Through 'Necovice', he aims to support owners by alleviating their fears about veterinary visits.

Conclusion

'Necovice' aspires to mitigate the anxieties of cat owners and strengthen volunteer activities, ultimately contributing to a society where cats and humans can coexist peacefully and confidently.

For more information, visit the official website: Necovice.