Cat charity issues plea after surge in rescues

A cat rescue charity is appealing for public support during the peak breeding season after an "unprecedented surge" in abandoned pets.

Byfleet Cat Rescue, in Surrey, said it was caring for more than 50 animals, and the situation had reached "breaking point", with every local rescue operating at or beyond capacity.

A spokesperson said: "The scale of the crisis is unlike anything we've seen before."

The charity is urging members of the public to play an active role in helping vulnerable cats remain safe while rescue spaces become available.

It said calls to the rescue centre were increasing daily about pregnant strays, newborn litters, abandoned cats, and animals being surrendered due to financial pressures.

The spokesperson said: "As quickly as cats are going out for adoption, double the number are needing to come in."

In just the last week alone, they said the centre had taken in two mother cats, each with litters of five kittens born outside in unsafe conditions.

"We simply cannot sustain these numbers without public support," they added.

"We desperately need foster homes, food donations, and people willing to help monitor stray cats in their communities."

The charity suggested members of the public could help ease pressures by feeding and monitoring strays until rescue help became available.

However, it said people should contact a rescue centre immediately if a cat with newborn kittens is found.

Otherwise, if a cat appears lost, disoriented or abandoned, a local "scan angel" can be contacted, or the animal can be taken to a vet to check for a microchip.

Cat owners are also being urged to neuter their pets as soon as possible to prevent further unwanted litters.

The charity said it was continuing to assist owners with neutering support wherever possible and encouraged anyone struggling to feed their pets or needing advice to get in touch.

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