The Southampton Cats Protection organization has revealed that an overwhelming number of more than 100 cats are currently in need of foster homes, highlighting a stark contrast from the situation in August 2022.
Attributing the surge in demand to the ongoing cost of living crisis and a growing number of landlords disallowing pets in rented accommodations, the charity has found itself grappling with an unprecedented challenge.
Unlike traditional shelters, the Southampton Cats Protection branch operates without a physical facility, relying on foster homes to accommodate unwanted and abandoned felines while they await permanent adoption.
Approximately 100 cats are currently under the care of 10 volunteer fosterers within the region. However, the pressing reality remains that another 100 cats are on the waiting list, underscoring the urgent requirement for more volunteers to step forward.
Carolyne Kemp, the coordinator of the branch, expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “We have a situation that is becoming increasingly desperate. The waiting list has more than doubled and it’s absolutely awful for us having to turn away these cats.”
The financial strains that accompany pet ownership have played a significant role in pushing cats into rescue shelters, with an alarming 41% increase in owners admitting their inability to afford their pets compared to the previous year.
Beyond financial constraints, the extended waiting list can also be attributed to a surge in elderly owners relocating to care homes and landlords rejecting rental applicants who possess pets.
Carolyne Kemp emphasized the importance of educating landlords about cats and their needs, asserting, “Landlords need educating on cats, it’s not good at all.”
To counteract the wave of surrenders, the charity has introduced a comprehensive scheme aimed at providing financial support and welfare guidance to cat owners, with the intention of preventing unnecessary surrenders.
“If someone phones up and says they want to give up their cat because they can’t afford to get it neutered, we will pay for it,” said Ms. Kemp, shedding light on the extent of their efforts to keep cats in their homes.
In light of the pressing situation, the Southampton Cats Protection branch is making an earnest appeal for more local volunteer fosterers to come forward and lend their support to these felines in need.
