The RSPCA has launched an appeal to help raise £1,000 to pay for surgery for two blind kittens rescued from a builder's yard in County Durham.
Ginger kittens Gabriel and Arthur, which were most likely born to a feral mother, were rescued from a builder's yard in Peterlee, in December last year.
However, an outbreak of cat flu meant that Gabriel is completely blind and has lost his eyes and Arthur only has sight in one eye.
The cats, who are now four and a half months old, are being cared for by one of the RSPCA Cat Hub’s foster carers but need to have operations.
Sophie Moran-Barker, RSPCA Cat Hub Rehoming Co-ordinator, said: "These two kittens were rescued separately by the RSPCA back in December.
"It was only when Gabriel was rescued that Inspector Krissy Raine realised her colleague had rescued his brother just a few days before so thankfully they were reunited.
"Gabriel has no eyes but he gets around very well and loves playing with toys.
Although Arthur only has one eye he has become a real help to his brother and Gabriel is able to follow his lead.
"Sadly, their rehabilitation is not over yet.
"Gabriel needs an operation to surgically stitch his eyelids together to prevent irritants such as cat litter getting into his empty eye sockets.
"Arthur is also suffering from entropion in his one good eye.
"This condition means his eyelid turns inward so his eyelashes and skin rub against the surface of the eye causing irritation and discomfort, so he needs an operation to correct this when he is a bit bigger and a bit stronger.
"We will ensure that the kittens get their operations as soon as our vets recommend, but we would be grateful for any help our supporters can give us."
The total cost for the surgeries will come to £1,020 and any extra funds raised will go towards their on-going care.
To help fund Gabriel and Arthur’s surgery, visit the Just Giving page here.
The RSPCA Cat Hub, based in Darlington, is supported by five RSPCA local branches and is administered by the RSPCA Darlington and District Branch.
The Cat Hub is one of the most successful rehoming centres in the country finding happy homes for more than 300 cats and kittens a year.
The pair will be in long-term foster care for a while, but there are lots of cats and kittens looking for homes. Please visit the Cat Hub website for more information.
