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RSPCA says 'we need your help' as cat lovers and pet owners urged to take action

The animal welfare experts shared an urgent plea to people who care about cats

[Cute kitten portrait. British Shorthair cat. Sad, crying expression]

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The charity has issued an urgent plea (stock photo)(Image: Getty)

A leading animal charity has issued an appeal to people considering bringing a pet into their home. In a social media appeal, the RSPCA said it's facing mounting strain amid the busiest stretch of the year.

In a message shared with cat owners and would-be adopters, the charity asked the public to 'choose to adopt', saying rehoming centres are facing intense demand as more cats and kittens need help. The call comes as the animal welfare charity says it has already dealt with thousands of cat-related incidents in recent months.

Posting on Facebook, the RSPCA said it is currently in 'Kitten Season' a period that typically runs from spring through to autumn and that its frontline services are facing 'immense pressure' as animals arrive needing care and support.

The RSPCA explained: "We're in the midst of Kitten Season - and we need your help. Kitten season is our busiest time of year, putting our rehoming centres and branches under immense pressure as thousands of vulnerable young cats and kittens enter our care."

According to the charity, its teams have responded to 6,308 cat-related incidents since May. This number includes abandoned litters and pregnant cats rescued by the RSPCA.

[The RSPCA says the cat crisis is growing (stock photo)]

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The RSPCA says the cat crisis is growing (stock photo)(Image: Getty)

In the appeal, the charity also asked cat owners to make sure their pets are neutered to prevent unwanted litters. The charity said that cats can become pregnant as young as four months old.

For anyone interested in rescuing a pet, more information is available on the charity's website. However, it's not just cats in need of a forever home. The RSPCA also looks after dogs, rabbits, horses, and many other animals.

Animal lovers might also consider fostering a pet while they wait to be adopted. The RSPCA website says: "If youre wondering how to foster a cat with the RSPCA, the first step is to register as a volunteer through our platform.

[Cat lovers are asked to help the charity (stock photo)]

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Cat lovers are asked to help the charity (stock photo)(Image: Getty)

"This allows us to learn more about you, your home environment and your availability. Once registered, youll be able to explore opportunities to foster a cat near you, through your local RSPCA branch or animal centre.

"When you find a suitable role, you can apply to become a foster carer. Our team will review your application to understand your home environment, lifestyle and the type of dog you may be able to support. The goal is to make sure the placement works well for both you and your new companion."

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