Shelter appeals for help after kitten 'surge'

An animal shelter says it is experiencing an "overwhelming surge" in vulnerable cats and kittens being brought in.

The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home, near Cambridge in Gloucestershire, is appealing for donations after taking in about 50 cats so far in 2025, at a rate of about three cats per week, including litters of kittens and pregnant females.

The charity said basic veterinary treatment for cats has already cost it thousands of pounds in the first half of the year.

Sam Herniman, individual giving fundraiser, said: "With abandonments soaring and rescue centres stretched to capacity, we're concerned about the months ahead."

The RSPCA released figures in November which highlighted a 51% rise in the number of animals being abandoned in England and Wales from 2021.

The increase is thought to be due to the cost of living crisis and surge of pet ownership during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Cotswold Dogs & Cats Home said the figures paint a "stark picture of the deepening animal welfare crisis in the UK".

It said it needs donations to provide food, safety and veterinary care to the neglected animals at its shelter until they find new owners.

Among the 48 cats it has taken in already this year, the shelter said it had two litters of kitten and two heavily-pregnant female cats in its care.

Ms Herniman said: "Behind these shocking statistics are the faces of a vulnerable animals, each a precious life in urgent need of care.

"This kitten season could be one of the busiest we've ever faced and we're calling on animal lovers to join forces and donate, so together we can be there for every cat and kitten that needs us."

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