The latest incident involved these four young kittens, who were found in Bruce Castle Park on Monday (19 August 2024) prior to being transported over to the RSPCA’s Animal Hospital in Finsbury Park to receive the care and attention they deserve and need.
Animal abandonment is at a three-year high, according to the RSPCA who received 30% more reports of abandoned animals last year than they did in 2020.
Their Animal Kindness Index also found that a growing number of people are finding keeping pets more expensive (78%) and they’re worried about the costs of feeding their animals.
Amid fears that the cost-of-living crisis is to blame for this sharp increase in cases, the charity is doing all they can to keep pets in their loving homes.
They’ve launched a Cost of Living Hub and a dedicated phone helpline (0300 123 0650, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) to support owners.
The RSPCA have also provided over 1.5m meals through their pet food bank scheme and committed £1.5m of extra funding to crisis measures.
Anyone who is struggling to care for their pet should reach out for help and speak to their friends and family, a local charity or your vet. Whatever you choose to do, please don’t abandon your pet.
If you do come across an animal you believe has been abandoned, please take them to a rescue charity or a local vet for urgent care.
To report animal cruelty or neglect, please visit the RSPCA website.
You can also play your part in helping to tackle the cat overpopulation crisis by neutering your feline friends.
Cats Protection’s Cats and Their Stats Report 2023 and the PDSA PAW Report found that 1.4m (13%) owned cats are still unneutered.
You can find more useful advice over on the RSPCA website, including:
Find a pet food bank
Help with vet bills
Eight tips to save money while looking after your pets
Should you spend on pet insurance?
DIY games to keep your pets entertained
How to make your own pet treats
