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Kitten Season Overwhelms West Midlands Shelters
25 Jul
Summary
- West Midlands cat shelters are at capacity due to peak kitten season.
- A 72% rise in cats entering care strained rehoming centres last year.
- Neutering is crucial to prevent unwanted litters and overpopulation.
Cat shelters across the West Midlands are facing critical capacity issues as the peak of kitten season, typically from May to September, brings an influx of unwanted animals. Last year alone, the RSPCA reported a 72% rise in cats entering their care, significantly straining rehoming facilities.
Charities emphasize the urgent need for pet owners to neuter their cats to curb the continuous cycle of overpopulation and prevent animals from being abandoned. Unneutered males can travel considerable distances, leading to numerous litters born in various locations, often found by concerned members of the public.
The current cost-of-living crisis has further complicated the situation, making it more difficult for some owners to afford neutering procedures. This, combined with the high breeding rate of cats, which can become pregnant as young as three months old, results in a constant demand for shelter space and resources.
