Charity in Kensal Green is struggling to cope with increase in dumped felines

Brent & Kilburn Times: The Mayhew Animal Home is struggling to cope with increase in dumped catsThe Mayhew Animal Home is struggling to cope with increase in dumped cats (Image: www.whitegoldimages.co.uk 07712 928000)

An animal charity in Kensal Green is appealing for more foster carers to help them cope with an increase in dumped cats.

The Mayhew Animal Home in Trenmar Gardens, is struggling to deal with a surge in felines who end up through their doors after being abandoned by owners.

The sanctuary already has a network of foster carers but desperately needs more people to take temporary care of some of their cats and kittens.

The summer months affect rescue charities as the high numbers of abandoned felines during ‘kitten season’ puts great strain on resources to house and care for the vulnerable animals.

The Mayhew can care for up to 150 cats at any one time but has had to close their cattery temporarily due to a lack of space.

Potential foster carers will need to commit to looking after a cat or kitten for two to three months.

All costs and care equipment for the felines, such as bedding and food, will be covered by The Mayhew – though any contributions towards looking after the animal would be appreciated as the charity is solely reliant on funds from the public to continue their work.

JoAnna Puzzo, The Mayhew’s cat welfare co-ordinator, said: “Our waiting lists are full of people who wish to give up their pet into their care and we are also responding to many emergency requests daily from members of the public who are finding litters of kittens abandoned and in need.”

Last week a cat with her kitten was found locked in a cage by bin men in Wembley.

Darcy has since given birth to another litter of kittens.

Ms Puzzo added: “People may often think that kittens are easy to rehome and must put little pressure on our resources, but it is the sheer number of them which makes it increasingly difficult to find accommodation for them all. “Kittens will benefit greatly from spending time in a foster home and it means that the next litter in need can be brought in and be cared for by our vet and animal teams.”

To find out more about becoming a foster care call Joanna Puzzo on 020 8968 2343 or email joanna@themayhew.org.