Norfolk cat charity calls attention to surge in unneutered and abandoned cats
Living costs could be part of the reason for the trend
A cat charity in Norfolk has raised concerns over the increasing number of cats being left unneutered and abandoned, they say it could be linked to the cost of living crisis.
Hayley Heley, from Norwich District Cats Protection, explained that the falling numbers of neutering have led to more feral cat colonies making their presence known only when they cause disturbances.
The charity faced their largest feral cat colony a few months ago, which cost them over three thousand pounds to capture, neuter, and return. Amongst the kittens was Atlas (pictred)
According to the charity’s report, only 82% of cats are currently neutered, a decrease that Heley says reflects broader economic pressures affecting pet owners, resulting in reduced ability to afford vet bills.
She highlighted the strain on their centres and volunteers to manage these growing populations and rehome cats effectively.
As winter approaches, Heley expressed concerns about the continuation of this trend, alongside the financial challenges winter can brings.
The charity urges people in need of assistance with neutering or controlling the number of cats they own to contact their local cats protection centre.
In addition, they encourage individuals looking to adopt to consider rehoming cats from their centres.