Cats abandoned in sealed box in Folkestone in scorching heat
The RSPCA has launched an investigation
The RSPCA is seeking information after two cats were found abandoned in a sealed cardboard box alongside a road in Folkestone amid soaring temperatures.
On Thursday, 30th July, a passerby noticed the box moving and heard distressed cries from within. She immediately brought it to a nearby veterinary practice where staff discovered two adult cats in distress.
The cats, trapped inside the securely taped box without ventilation holes, faced danger as temperatures climbed to approximately 33°C. Vet staff describe how these conditions could have proved fatal if not found in time.
Lucky Escape
Animal Rescue Officer Brian Milligan commented on the incident, expressing gratitude towards the quick actions of the finder:
“These cats were extremely lucky to survive had this member of the public not investigated where the cries were coming from, the outcome could have been tragic.
“Sealing two cats inside a box with no ventilation during such high temperatures would have caused them immense suffering and they are lucky to escape with their lives. It is so sad as they were in good condition so I would expect they have been much loved pets.
"We are extremely grateful to the finder for acting so quickly and to the vets for providing immediate care and would like her to get in touch to establish where she found the pets to help with our investigation as no details were left with the vets.”
The two cats, a female black and white and a male tabby, were in good body condition but very distressed and panting heavily. They have been moved to an RSPCA centre and will be rehomed once fully recovered.
Cruelty Statistics
This incident is part of a concerning trend, as RSPCA's recent figures show a 64% increase in summer cruelty cases over five years. The data unveiled as part of the Cruelty Hurts, Love Rescues campaign reflects increasing cruelty reports during summer months, currently the charity's busiest period.
In June, July, and August last year, 6,322 cruelty calls were received by the RSPCA's emergency line, equating to one call every 10 minutes, compared to 3,852 calls in the same period in 2021.
Milligan highlighted the importance of seeking assistance:
“There is never any excuse to dump pets like this, there is always help available to pet owners in need from many charities and there is also a dedicated cost of living hub on our website to help those who may be struggling.”
Anyone with knowledge about the cats or the circumstances of their abandonment is urged to contact the RSPCA's Inspectorate Appeal Line on 0300 123 8018, quoting incident 01868127.