Boxes of cats and kittens dumped in car park

Two cardboard boxes full of cats and kittens have been dumped outside one of our adoption centres.

The sealed boxes containing three cats and 11 tiny kittens were left in the car park of the Torbay centre.

Two of the cats, including the kittens’ mother, managed to break out but were later tracked down.

Some of kittens were only a few weeks old and very hungry so they were bottle-fed around the clock by centre staff.

Adoption centre manager Tim Sillis says: “It’s heartbreaking when animals are abandoned, particularly when they are so small and vulnerable. 

“These kittens wouldn’t have survived long without their mother so it was lucky we found them so quickly. 

“I can understand that some people can struggle to look after their pets but please contact us to make sure we can take them in safely rather than dumping them.  We will never judge someone for making a responsible decision for their animal.”

Last year the Torbay centre took in 418 cats and kittens and found loving new homes for 401 of these, all of which were neutered to prevent any further unwanted pets. 

We urge all cat owners to neuter their animals to prevent the same problems reoccurring this year. 

Tim adds: “Last year there was an alarming number of kittens dumped in this area and we took in a record number of unwanted litters. 

“Please help us reduce abandoned and unwanted pets by neutering your animals.  Everyone loves kittens but it is not always easy to find homes for them and in the meantime the costs can add up very quickly.” 

We are now appealing for loving new homes for two of the abandoned adult cats and six of the older kittens, who are thought to be around three months old. 

They are a little timid after their ordeal but are quickly starting to show their cheeky and affectionate nature. 

They can be rehomed on their own or in pairs.  The other kittens will start their search for homes when they reach nine weeks old and can be parted from their mother. 

If you can offer a second chance in life to one of these adorable kittens or cats, please call the Torbay centre on 01803 327 738.