AN urgent appeal has been made by Cats Action Trust for cat fosterers after an influx of abandoned cats and kittens.
The Melksham-based charity has had to close its waiting list because it only has four fosterers and is appealing for local cat lovers to come forward to help.
“This shortage of cat fosterers is causing strain on the organisation as we face an influx of abandoned cats and kittens, partly due to people no longer being able to care for their pets,” says trustee Karine Chevalier-Watts, “We have a waiting list of 13 cats but have had to close it temporarily because we cannot accommodate new arrivals for weeks or even months.
“The holiday season has worsened the situation, as potential adopters have been away, further delaying the clearing of spaces for new cats. Without more fosterers, the charity’s future is in jeopardy and we won’t be able to fulfil our mission of helping homeless cats and kittens in Wiltshire.
“We are urgently seeking individuals who can provide temporary shelter for cats, fully trained and with all expenses covered. Despite previous appeals, we have not yet found new fosterers and we are struggling to help people rehome their cats or assist with stray cats due to limited space.”
Interested individuals within a 20-mile radius of Melksham, with a spare room and access to a car, are encouraged to contact the organisation at, catsactiontrust@gmail.com.
Karine added, “The appeal emphasises the critical need for new fosterers to help address the growing crisis of homeless cats and kittens in the region.”
The Cats Action Trust appeal comes at a time when nationally there is a record number of cats – and dogs – being abandoned. The cost of living crisis is also forcing an increasing number of owners to hand over their pets to charities and rescue organisations as food bills and vets’ fees rise.
The RSPCA say that their officers are dealing with 25% more abandonment cases year on year.
Struggling owners are also turning to pet food banks with one set up in Melksham reporting increased demand.
The responsibilities of fosterers include providing suitable temporary accommodation, completing veterinary visits, contributing to the website with the profiles of their fostered cats, maintaining records, arranging meetings with potential adopters and conducting home checks. Support and advice are available from other fosterers and volunteers.
For any further information, please contact Cats Action Trust North and West Wiltshire via, catsactiontrust@gmail.com or pop into the shop in Bath Road, Melksham, SN12 6LL.
