'Cat crisis' prompts RSPCA adoption appeal

Henry came to be in the care of the York, Harrogate and District's RSPCA branch via a vet after he needed some medical treatment

An animal charity has said it was in the midst of a "cat crisis" and some felines were being turned away from its centres in North Yorkshire due to a lack of space.

The RSPCA's York, Harrogate and District branch has urged people in North Yorkshire to consider adopting a rescue cat in a bid to reduce pressure on its centres.

New data from the charity revealed the number of cats in its 14 national centres had more than doubled since 2020, from about 800 to 1,700.

Marie Sandall, from the RSPCA, said one factor was people who got cats during the Covid pandemic and who now realised the high costs involved: "A few years later, with increases in vet fees and the cost of pet food, it's hitting home."

Ms Sandall, RSPCA animal welfare supervisor in North Yorkshire, said: "People are struggling."

Trio Hatchi, Aubrey and Bailey came into the centre via an inspector and did not have a very good start to life, the RSPCA said

Ms Sandall also suggested that a decrease in the number of cat owners neutering their felines was contributing to the problem.

"The average litter of kittens is about five or six," she said.

"If those don't get neutered either, it becomes a vicious circle.

"It becomes never-ending for us and it's having a huge impact on our centre."

Alice Potter, RSPCA cat welfare specialist, said staff at the charity's York, Harrogate & District branch were now having to place incoming felines in private catteries until spaces became free, which could be "stressful" for the animals.

"We'd urge anyone ready and able to adopt a rescue animal to fill in a 'perfect match' form," she said.

"There's a cat for everyone: cute kittens, marvellous moggies, fireside felines and outdoor adventurers," Ms Potter explained.

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