An increase in the number of cats and kittens being dumped at an animal charity in Kensal Green has placed the charity in crisis.
The Mayhew Animal Home in Trenmar Gardens, is currently unable to treat serious welfare cases due to the high volume of abandoned pets coming through its doors.
This month alone, 31 cats have been dumped in boxes or carriers, left on the doorstep or in The Mayhew’s reception.
In one extreme case a family left behind their 11 cats after moving out of their home.
As The Mayhew is full, a welfare officer from the charity has been visiting the garden where they were dumped everyday to check on them and feed them.
Zoe Edwards, The Mayhew’s animal welfare manager, is urging owners too seek advice from the charity first before abandoning their pets.
She said: “This is the impact that irresponsible owners have on our rescue centre.
“When owners dump perfectly healthy cats on us without seeking help from us first, it means we cannot rescue cats that are in urgent need.
“Owners dumping their cats have told us that they cannot afford to feed them. If this is the situation they are facing, we can help with food supplies. Where pet owners are having difficulty, we urge them to contact us first and we will see what we can do to help.
“If owners called us in the first instance, we can help in many other ways rather than the last resort of them dumping their pet on us.
“We are here to assist and advise pet owners on the best course of action for their pet.”
Other cats that have been dumped at The Mayhew this month includes Tina who had a spay wound and was dumped in a carrier next to the charity’s dustbins and Zebedee, a male cat abandoned in a cardboard box with a note attached to it.
Georgina Disney, The Mayhew’s cat welfare co-ordinator, is appealing for foster carers for the abandoned cats and kittens.
She said: “We provide everything that’s needed and it’s a rewarding way to help us.
“The more foster carers we have, the more sick, injured and abandoned animals in need we can take in, help and rehome.”
Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer should call 020 8916 8000 or visit themayhew.org/get-involved/foster/.
If you would like to make a donation to The Mayhew visit themayhew.org/donate.
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