Rescue cats are waiting a week longer to find loving homes
The RSPCA is urging people across Durham to consider adopting a rescue cat from RSPCA Felledge Animal Centre amid an all-time high in numbers of moggies in the charity’s care.
New data unveiled during the RSPCA’s Adoptober rehoming drive reveals that the number of cats being cared for at the charity’s fourteen national centres alone, as they wait for forever homes, has more than doubled from some 800 in 2020 to around 1,700 this summer. And thousands more cats are being cared for by independently-run RSPCA branches across England and Wales.
Cats looking for a home include Duffy (pictured) Waffle, Shadow and Tuna at RSPCA Felledge Animal Centre in Chester-le-Street.
RSPCA records also showed cats are now waiting more than a week longer to find a new home – 40 days on average, a rise from 32.5 days in September last year (23% increase).
Although RSPCA centres and branches across England and Wales rehome more cats than any other animal – more than 17,000 last year or about two every single hour – there are still record numbers of cats in the charity’s care.
The rise in numbers is partly due to several recent large-scale cruelty and neglect cases which have led to high numbers of cats.
RSPCA cat welfare specialist, Alice Potter said:
“We have an astonishing number of cats in our care who are looking for a new home. Many have come from recent large-scale cruelty and neglect cases.
“We’re experiencing an unprecedented rehoming crisis, with centres so full they are unable to accept any more cats – so most of the incoming animals are having to be placed in private catteries until spaces become free in our own rehoming centres.
“Despite the best efforts of those who care for them, life in a cattery can be stressful for cats so by finding them loving homes as quickly as possible we can also free up space for other cats who need our help.
“This month’s Adoptober rehoming campaign is encouraging more people to consider adopting one of the lonely cats featured on our Findapet website who are looking for a forever home.”
Cats – RSPCA Felledge Animal Centre
Duffy, Waffle, Shadow and Tuna are all patiently awaiting their purrfect forever homes this Adoptober.
Duffy is an affectionate 12 year old black and white Domestic Shorthair who is searching for a patient and loving family to call her own. Duffy has come into RSPCA care due her previous owners been unable to care for her.
Deputy Centre Manager Luka Atkinson said:
“She may be a little reserved when you first meet her, but don’t let her initial shyness fool you! Behind that reserve is a wonderfully affectionate cat just waiting to blossom.
“Duffy is an adaptable cat who may be able to share her space with a resident cat or a cat-friendly dog, provided you manage slow and careful introductions.
“She would thrive in a home with children of secondary school age who can respect her initial need for space and understand the value of patience.”
Duffy has had access to the outside world in her previous home, she would also benefit from having outdoor space to roam again. Because of this we are looking for a safe area for her to do this.
Waffle is a grey tabby, approximately one year old, with a gentle disposition that is slowly emerging. He came from a multi-cat household and is now seeking a tranquil, adult-only home where he can truly blossom.
“Waffle is currently quite nervous, but his confidence is steadily growing with each positive interaction,” said Luka.
“He is looking for a patient and understanding individual who has the time and compassion to help him overcome his shyness and fully realise his potential as a loving companion. We feel that he would prefer to be the only pet in the home.”
Shadow is a five year old black Domestic Shorthair who is searching for a patient and loving family to call his own.
Luka said:
“He may be a little reserved when you first meet him, but don’t let his initial shyness fool you!
“Behind that reserve is a wonderfully affectionate cat just waiting to blossom. Once Shadow knows and trusts you, he truly transforms, becoming a happy, purring companion who will happily curl up right beside you.”
Shadow is an adaptable cat who may be able to share his space with a resident cat or a cat-friendly dog, provided you manage slow and careful introductions. He’d thrive in a home with children of secondary school age.
Tuna, a 2-year-old Siamese cat, is also eagerly searching for a rather unique and understanding forever home.
She arrived with two kittens, both of whom have since found their loving forever families. Now, it’s Tuna’s turn to find the perfect place to call her own.
“Tuna’s past experiences have shaped her into a highly independent cat who is not currently inclined to be affectionate,” said Luka.
“She thrives on her own terms and prefers to explore and observe rather than engage in close physical contact. We are therefore seeking a special home for Tuna – one that is situated in a more rural setting with ample outdoor space for her to roam and satisfy her natural curiosity.”
If you are interested in Duffy, Waffle, Shadow or Tuna and to apply please fill out an online application form. You can find more cats and kittens looking for homes from the centre here.
Getting a pet brings a lot of joy, but before committing, it’s important to understand the costs. The RSPCA pet cost calculator can help you prepare. It’s also important to consider pet insurance to protect against unexpected costs.
More information about cats and other animals available for adoption can be found on the RSPCA’s ‘Findapet’ webpage.
