Bath Cats and Dogs Home has been inundated with a dramatic increase in cats and kittens needing care. In May alone, the shelter took in 27 cats and 31 kittens, and they anticipate caring for over 100 kittens throughout the year.
This surge is attributed to a combination of unneutered pets, an unusually warm spring encouraging breeding, and the financial pressures of the cost-of-living crisis, which have led more owners to surrender or abandon their pets. Julie Stone, Head of Animal Operations at Bath Cats and Dogs Home, explained the situation and issued a plea to the community:
“During this kitten season, we ask the public to help in three key ways. First, to avoid unwanted litters, consult your vet about neutering your cat early. Second, if you come across abandoned cats or kittens, contact your local vet or animal rescue centre immediately. Lastly, while we’re committed to helping every cat in need, the demand stretches our resources to the limit. Please support our ‘A Feline Summer’ appeal so we can continue providing vital care.”
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Kittens require intensive neonatal care and sometimes emergency veterinary treatment, placing immense strain on the shelter’s team. This is not a problem unique to Bath. Nationally, the RSPCA reported 14,568 cat-related incidents from May to September last year, including 7,879 cases of abandoned cats. So far this year, nearly 3,000 abandonment reports have been recorded.
Chrissie Anderton, an animal rescuer from nearby Bradford-on-Avon, shared her experience: “While walking my dogs, I found Rosalina, a mother cat, and her two-day-old kittens hidden in the grass. I couldn’t leave them vulnerable, so I cared for them for two weeks. With four pets already, I sadly had to say goodbye when I brought them to Bath Cats and Dogs Home, but I trust they will have a happy future in their care.”
Supporters can contribute to the shelter’s summer appeal online. Donations make a significant impact: £30 can provide specialist kitten food, £10 can cover vital vaccinations, and £5 a month can fund flea treatments.
To get involved, from donating to volunteering or adopting, visit Bath Cats and Dogs Home’s website.