As the UK braces itself for the most depressing day of the year, Cats Protection has reported that abandonments are up 71% compared to 2021.
The charity took in 1,825 abandoned cats in 2024, a figure which has been rising steadily since 2021 when it was 1,068.
This is depressing news for cat welfare, at a time when the country is bearing the brunt of the winter blues.
The rise in abandonments can be linked to the challenging economic situation, with more than one in three cat owners (34%) reporting they have been significantly and negatively affected by rises in living costs*.
Abandoned cats included one year old River who was brought to the charity’s West Norfolk Cat Centre during November.
“This poor cat was found trapped inside a fabric carrier that had been found amongst undergrowth close to the River Great Ouse,” says Stacey Ely, Deputy Manager of the centre.
“He was desperately scratching at the carrier trying to get out, and the sound alerted a nearby family who were out for a walk.”
“Fortunately River was okay but this was a freezing day in November and he could easily have starved or frozen to death had this family not spotted him. It was also fortunate that we had space to take him in.” said Stacey.
“We’re hearing many distressing stories like this from our branches and centres across the UK,” explained Peter Shergold, Associate Director of Community Operations for Cats Protection.
“Financial pressures are undoubtedly affecting cat ownership. The numbers of owned cats in the UK dropped from about 11 million in 2021 to around 10.6 million in 2024.
“However, there is clearly a small minority of people who are abandoning their cats and putting their welfare at risk.
“This is not a solution for the cat – it’s potentially a death sentence. Domestic cats simply cannot survive out in the wild without food, water, shelter and veterinary care.
“If you’re struggling to care for your cat, please don’t consider abandonment as an option. Instead, contact your local Cats Protection or other reputable rescue organisation, who can offer guidance and help you explore the best next steps to ensure your cat stays safe and well cared for.”
The charity is urging cat lovers to donate to its winter campaign so it can support cats and owners that desperately need help, and to consider adopting a cat.
“Many cat owners tell us that their pets bring them a lot of joy which is especially useful during this gloomy period in January which is beset with financial problems, bad weather and often failed New Year’s resolutions,” said Peter.
“Stroking a cat can be a great source of support as it’s known to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve mood generally, proving that life is better with cats.”
Further information about Cats Protection’s winter campaign can be found at www.cats.org.uk/abandoned
