Bromsgrove, UK — The Blue Cross animal rehoming center in Bromsgrove is urgently seeking volunteer foster carers to help manage a significant influx of kittens that have been abandoned or are in need of care during the summer months.
The shelter has experienced a noticeable increase in the number of unwanted and abandoned kittens, many of which require immediate and ongoing care. These kittens, often left by their mothers or born from unplanned litters, are unable to survive on their own and depend heavily on the shelter’s resources.
“Sadly, we take in a lot of homeless kittens and pregnant cats over the warmer months,” said Laura Coveney, the center manager at Blue Cross Bromsgrove. “With additional concerns around the cost-of-living crisis potentially putting owners off getting their cat neutered, we are worried that this year will see us taking in even more than usual.”
Newborn kittens without maternal care need around-the-clock attention, including hand feeding every few hours until they are strong enough to survive independently. Some kittens arrive at the shelter in critical condition, suffering from ailments such as flea anemia, which can lead to severe complications, including blindness or even death if left untreated.
To ensure the best possible care and socialization for these vulnerable animals, the Blue Cross aims to place them in foster homes rather than keeping them in the cattery. “It is vital for them to be around the usual household sights and sounds to enable them to grow into happy and confident adult cats,” Coveney emphasized.
Among the kittens currently being cared for at Bromsgrove and by volunteer foster carers are Waffle, Pretzel, Churro, and Bagel—strays who were brought to Blue Cross from the PDSA. Additionally, three more kittens, named Honolulu, Maui, and Bali, were found abandoned in a cardboard box and are now receiving treatment for cat flu under the care of a foster family. Honolulu, the smallest of her litter, has required extra attention and veterinary care, highlighting the critical role foster homes play in the rehabilitation of these animals.
Blue Cross provides comprehensive training for foster carers, covering all costs, including travel. The organization also offers full support and guidance throughout the fostering process, ensuring volunteers have the resources they need to care for these young animals.
As the demand for care continues to rise, Bromsgrove’s Blue Cross is calling on animal lovers in the community to step forward and help provide temporary homes for these kittens, giving them the best chance at a healthy and happy life.
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