The reality of unneutered cats living together was brought into sharp focus for one owner as their number quickly swelled, resulting in 13 cats – with more on the way.
The West Lothian Branch of Cats Protection was called in to aid the owner, who was unsurprisingly overwhelmed by the sheer number of cats as they bred and multiplied.
Although they were all well-looked after and healthy, it was agreed that 12 of the cats would be removed, leaving the owner with one for company, who has now been neutered with the help of Cats Protection to prevent the situation escalating again.
The branch’s volunteer army of fosterers swung in to action to accommodate the brood, who have affectionately been coined the ‘Darling Dozen’. Vet checks revealed one cat to be pregnant.
Getting all but the pregnant cat neutered was a priority, as well as vaccinated, microchipped and given flea and worm treatments, costing up to £200 per cat, to ensure they have a clean bill of health before being rehomed.
The pandemic has hit the charity hard, as its usual fundraising events have largely had to be postponed or cancelled for a whole year, so the branch has launched a special appeal to help cover the hefty veterinary costs, with more to come to cover the impending birth of the litter of kittens. To donate via JustGiving, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/west-lothian-cats-protection-darlingdozen
All the cats will soon be available for adoption, bar the expectant mother who will remain with a fosterer, and it is hoped they will be able to be rehomed in pairs, with two already enjoying life with their new family.
Branch coordinator David Cochrane said: “This is a clear example of how unneutered cats living together can quickly spiral out of control as people don’t realise how easily and often female cats can fall pregnant. They are able to reproduce from as young as four months, and it is common for siblings to mate.
“We offer vouchers to help cover the cost of neutering for those on low incomes, which can be used at participating vets, and we urge people to get in touch with us to find out how we can help.
“Our brilliant team has been taking great care of the Darling Dozen, as well as many other cats who have unfortunately found themselves homeless. We appreciate anyone who feels able to donate to our fundraiser as we strive to help all these cats into happy forever homes.”
A recent survey by Cats Protection found that 77 per cent of respondents were unaware cats could get pregnant from as young as four months old, while 86 per cent did not know a female cat could produce up to 18 kittens in just one year.
Cats Protection has produced an infographic with useful tips for owners on how to stop cats becoming pregnant: https://bit.ly/2AmPwq9
For further information about the West Lothian Branch visit https://www.cats.org.uk/west-lothian
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