Residents can help a local cat shelter stay cozy at a fundraiser this weekend to benefit neglected animals.

The Cozy Cat Cottage will host a wine-tasting and silent auction to help feed and shelter hundreds of feline friends from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 8, at the Cedar Brook Garden Center, 6058 Glick Road, just west of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

The shelter itself, located on Village Pointe Drive in Powell, currently houses about 200 neglected and abused animals, most rescued from the streets of central Ohio, said volunteer director Tiffany Kinzer.

"The animals we take in are in very dire straits," Kinzer said. "There isn't anything we won't do to try to save their lives if they come to us in bad shape."

The event will feature hors d'oeuvres, a selection of wines and live music by the Chamber Music Connection.

Unique items up for auction include original cartoon sketches by Dr. Seuss and Charles Schulz of Peanuts fame and a basketball autographed by Thad Matta. Other items include vacations, jewelry, dog and cat items and gift certificates from local restaurants, spas, salons and personal trainers.

All proceeds will help the shelter continue to house, feed and provide medical treatment for its cats.

Kinzer said the no-kill, nonprofit shelter has struggled to stay afloat during the last few years in a bad economy.

"Everyone is affected by the economy, but it really hit us," she said. "Adoptions have gone up a bit, but we still struggle to bring in donations."

Tickets at the door are $40 or $70 for a couple.