Kittens calling for care at Blue Cross in Devon

Every summer, Blue Cross in Devon sees a rise in the number of unwanted and abandoned kittens arrive at the animal rehoming centre. Some have been abandoned by their mothers and left to fend for themselves and others who were an unplanned litter that owners cannot care for.

Without their mother, young kittens need round-the-clock care and hand feeding every few hours until they are strong enough. Some kittens arrive needing urgent vet care, suffering from flea anaemia which makes them extremely weak, can lead to blindness if left untreated and even death.

Annaliese Langworthy Centre Manager at Blue Cross in Southampton said: “Sadly, we take in a lot of homeless kittens and pregnant cats over the warmer months. With additional concerns around the cost of living crisis potentially putting owners off getting their cat neutered, we are worried that this year will see us taking in even more than usual. We aim to find them a foster home instead of caring for them in our cattery because it is vital for them to be around the usual household sights and sounds to enable them to grow into happy and confident adult cats.”

Cats and kittens currently being cared for by the centre team and volunteer foster carers include seven year old Jasper,domestic long-haired brown tabby cat. He is a laid back boy who loves an outdoor adventure and the way to his heart seems to be through his stomach!

Five month old Elsie is also looking for her forever home, after being found as a stray kitten earlier this year. Elsie is a sleek, playful little cat who has a lot of love and cheekiness to offer her new owners.

The charity is calling out to animal lovers to join their dedicated team of volunteer foster carers. Foster carers receive full training and all costs, including travel, are covered by Blue Cross and there is full support and guidance throughout.  

To find out more about becoming a volunteer foster carer and joining the Blue Cross team visit  www.bluecross.org.uk/pet-fostering  or contact the centre in Devon on 0300 777 1853 or email devon@bluecross.org.uk