Waiting list hits new high (From Keighley News)

Waiting list hits new high

2:00pm Sunday 23rd December 2012 in News By Alistair Shand

The waiting list for a Cross Roads cat welfare charity has hit an all-time high.

One thousand unwanted cats are now waiting to be taken in by Haworth Cat Rescue, a total the shelter describes as “staggering”.

This is despite the fact that the charity recently broke the record it set last year for finding loving new homes for its feline residents.

The group says it is continuing to do everything it can to find homes for more than 100 cats and kittens currently in its care. But its staff and volunteers are receiving a growing number of calls for help.

These are coming from owners unable to keep their cats, and from passers-by who stumble across cats and kittens seeking shelter under bushes and in sheds.

Sara Atkinson, who founded the charity in 1992, said: “This year we have had more requests than ever to take in cats from people who are no longer able to care for them, or cats that have been found living on the street.”

Shelter manager, Sam Davies, said: “Many people are trying their best to feed and shelter homeless cats that turn up on their doorstep – particularly when they are found to be caring for newborn kittens. But few are able to keep them and most rescues are full to the brink.”

She said she worried that people could resort to simply letting their cats go if they run out of time or patience before a space is found.

“Although cats do enjoy spending time outside, they do not tolerate cold weather well, and they need food, water and shelter,” she said.

“With winter approaching I urge everyone on our waiting list to be patient and not to throw an unwanted cat out.

“Ask a friend, a neighbour or family member if they can step in and either temporarily care for the cat or even offer it a permanent new home.”