The RSPCA has revealed there were 8,098 calls coming through to its cruelty line in Wales last year with concerns for the welfare of cats – which is almost one every HOUR.
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Across England and Wales the charity received more than 100,000 calls and rescues more cats than any other animal whether this is moggies stuck in tight spots, to cats that have been abandoned or neglected and abused.
In Wales, Cardiff, Swansea and Rhondda Cynon Taff received the most calls.
This International Cat Day (8 August) the RSPCA is shining a light on the plight of cats and how we can help them.
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Alice Potter, RSPCA’s cat welfare expert said: “It’s sad to see that we have received so many calls about cats in need. Cats end up needing our help for a variety of reasons, for example their natural curiosity can mean they need rescuing when they get into scrapes and tricky situations. There are also some real issues that we see time and again including cats and kittens being abandoned, cats having unplanned and unwanted pregnancies due to a lack of neutering and multi-cat households where breeding has sadly become out of control.
“However, there are many cats who are much luckier and are very much a part of the family and loved by their owners who understand their likes and dislikes, their little quirks and routines. Every cat is an individual but there are some signs we can look out for to see how our cats are feeling through understanding their body language and behaviour to ensure they are happy and healthy.”
Tips for understanding cat behaviour
- Cats who are feeling anxious or fearful often like to hide away – this can help them cope better. Always ensure your cat has lots of cosy hiding places around the house.
- A cat who is feeling friendly and happy to meet you will approach with their tail held upright with the tip of the tail curved. Most cats prefer to initiate any interaction so give them time to come to you.
- Rolling over onto their back and showing their tummy can be a sign your cat feels comfortable and safe around you. This is not however, an invitation to rub their belly! Most cats do not enjoy a belly rub and may react defensively. Instead, you may like to give them a gentle stroke on their head or cheeks.
- Look out for any changes in your cats usual behaviour, for example changes to their eating toileting or sleeping habits – any change may indicate that something isn’t right and you may need to seek advice from your vet.
RSPCA Bryn-Y-Maen Animal Centre in Upper Colwyn Bay currently has 27 cats looking for homes.
One of them is the handsome little Hector. The black and white three-year-old is a sweet lad, although he is a little timid. He is currently enjoying some extra TLC in a foster home and although he took a few days to settle in, he is now starting to enjoy playing and having some fuss and attention. He will be a great little cat for someone who has a quiet home and maybe is home for much of the day too.
To arrange to meet Hector please contact the centre on 0300 123 0745 – which is open 11am to 4pm except Wednesdays.
Anyone who would like to rehome and RSPCA cat should visit the website www.rspca.org.uk/findapet
