A London-based animal welfare group has shared a shocking video of a cat being abandoned in its lobby, highlighting the disturbing frequency of such incidents.
The TikTok video, posted on December 4 by @themayhew, includes CCTV footage from June 14, showing a man tying up a cat, Elrond, in the reception area of The Mayhew animal shelter before quickly leaving without him. The shelter’s staff immediately rushed to Elrond’s side, providing comfort and care.
“The person who brought him in left before we could get any information about Elrond, his circumstances, or any contact details,” said Olivia Patt, the head of engagement at The Mayhew, in an email to Newsweek.
As an animal welfare and veterinary charity, The Mayhew took immediate action, welcoming Elrond into their care. They provided vaccinations, flea and worm treatment, neutering, and microchipping before the cat stayed at their London facility for four weeks. Patt confirmed that Elrond is now “living his best life in a very loving home.”
Despite the heartbreaking nature of the video, many viewers expressed gratitude that the cat had been left in a safe place. Comments included: “We don’t know the person’s circumstances, but I hope the kitty finds a loving home,” and, “He brought the cat to you because he cares enough about it… I imagine he went home & broke his heart.”
The surge in abandoned animals, especially in shelters, is becoming a global issue. Reasons behind pet abandonment include behavioral issues, allergies, financial struggles, moving, or changes in family dynamics. Shelters often try to offer solutions to keep pets in their homes, including donations or support.
Olivia Patt shared that The Mayhew has seen a significant increase in abandonments in 2024. “The number of abandonments has skyrocketed,” she said. “Staff and volunteers regularly find animals left outside or in the reception area.”
The demand for The Mayhew’s services has risen dramatically in recent years. According to Patt, there has been a 60% increase in requests for stray and sign-over help. The charity has also faced a “cat crisis,” with over 1,000 requests to give up cats and kittens last year alone. They were able to rehome 425 felines, but the demand for their services is now overwhelming, outstripping their capacity.
The rising number of cats needing help, combined with a decline in adoption rates, has left shelters like The Mayhew struggling to keep up.
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