The RSPCA is appealing to the public for information after two young kittens suffering from cat flu were callously dumped in a box by a school in Rugby.
The animal welfare charity was contacted on Wednesday morning (29 March) by a member of the public, who found the kittens in Houlton Way on their walk to work. They’d heard them meowing for help inside the cold box.
RSPCA animal rescue officer Jack Curran rushed to the scene to collect the kittens and is now appealing for information about who dumped them in such a poor state.
Jack said: “These kittens, who we believe are around four weeks old, are not very well at all. They have cat flu which has made them quite poorly. They were so cold when they were discovered, it’s so sad to think how long they were there for and what would have happened to them if they hadn’t been found. Such young kittens are so vulnerable to predators and it is no wonder they were so nervous.
“They have been seen by a vet who was very concerned about what happened to them as it is clear that they suffered.
“For now they are being treated with anti-inflammatories, antibiotics and eye drops – and we hope that they will make a recovery soon. They’re currently in the care of one of our branches where they’re getting lots of TLC.”
The animal charity is now urging anyone who has any information to get in touch.
“Somebody must know who owned these kittens,” said Jack. “If so, please call our appeals line on 0300 123 8018 so we can look into it further.”
RSPCA officers are responding to an increasing number of abandoned pets as the cost of living crisis continues to bite – but the animal welfare charity has warned the public this is never the answer.
Jack added: “It is never acceptable to abandon an animal, even if you think you are doing it with good intentions because you can’t afford veterinary fees. It is a cruel way to treat an animal. If you have a pet who needs veterinary care, there is financial help out there – the last thing you should do is dump them.”
Last month, the RSPCA received 1,324 reports of abandoned animals – up 8% from February 2022.
The cost of living crisis is the singlest biggest challenge for animal welfare right now. To help pet-owners who are worrying about financial costs, there is information on the RSPCA’s cost of living hub. Alternatively, you can call the charity’s dedicated cost of living call line on 0300 123 0650.
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit: www.rspca.org.uk/give.
