Shelter 'filled to brim' unable to take in more cats

Two of the recently rescued cats at the RSPCA's Mid Wiltshire branch

An animal rescue shelter "filled to the brim" has been forced to close its doors to new cat arrivals.

The cost of living crisis has led to a rise in the number of cats and kittens needing new homes, according to the RSPCA's Mid Wiltshire branch.

The shelter said it can not currently take any more cats in until it has rehomed some of the 20 cats it already has. It comes after it also took in 10 cats that had been dumped in a cage on Salisbury Plain.

Jess Scull, from the RSPCA, said: "We are absolutely filled to the brim. We really want to help but unfortunately there comes a point where there is no more space available."

"There is nothing more we can do other than look after the ones we have and try to find them homes. This is the worst it has been."

Volunteers at RSPCA Mid Wilts said they take numerous calls from people concerned for strays, kittens found outside and pregnant cats.

Ms Scull said: "Not only do we have the strays, but we have members of the public who need help. It's really hard to have pets with all the costs associated.

"We see our kittens flying out the door. But when they are adopted, we have to have a real open conversation with people to say how while they are lovely and small and fluffy now, they will turn into adults and you could have them for 15 years.

"That's a huge commitment."

Jess Scull has urged people to support their local animal shelters

Ten young cats were recently found on Salisbury Plain inside a cage

RSPCA Mid Wilts, which operates across Devizes, Melksham, Warminster and Westbury, said that it is also supporting 10 cats recently found in a cage without any food or water.

It added a lot of its finances are going towards their recovery, describing them as "quite poorly".

To combat the influx of animals needing care, animal charities across the South West are now working together to find a solution.

Ms Scull added: "We have been lucky to work with other local rescues where we can pick up the phone and say 'do you have any space?'

"I think it's really important to work together and open our doors when we can."