The RSPCA is asking the public to come forward with information about two kittens who were found in a cat carrier in a wheelie bin in Darlington.
The young cats were discovered after a householder heard meowing coming from the bin to the rear of properties in Chelmsford Street and went to investigate.
Huddled inside in a grey plastic carrier were two kittens – a female tabby and a black male with white markings – thought to be around five to six months old.
They were kindly taken by the finder – who lived nearby – to a vet in Bradbury, before they were transferred by the RSPCA to another practice where they were microchipped, vaccinated and given flea and worming treatment.
Now named Brooke and Sydney, they are currently being cared for at a private boarding facility on behalf of the RSPCA and will be transferred to one of the charity’s rehoming centres in due course.
The kittens were discovered on Saturday 11 January between 7.30 and 8pm. Enquiries have been carried out by the charity’s officers in the local area and anyone who recognises them is urged to get in touch.
RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Ruth Thomas-Coxon, said: “The member of the public was alerted by meowing noises coming from the bin and found Brooke and Sydney inside. They were described as being very smelly, so it’s possible they could have been in there for some time.
““It was extremely fortunate their cries were heard, and we’d like to say a huge thank you to the person who found them and got them help, and to the vets for their assistance.
“What a hugely distressing experience it must have been for them and shocking to think that someone could have deliberately abandoned them in this way. They’re friendly kittens who will make lovely companions in a loving new home.”
Anyone with information about the incident can contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018 quoting reference number 1426573.
The RSPCA received 22,503 incidents about abandoned animals in 2024, equating to an average of more than 61 incidents every single day of the year.
New data revealed by the charity this month shows that between 18 December and 31 December 2024, there were 846 abandonment incidents, the highest for the festive period since 2018. During this period, December 27 had the most number of incidents logged – 84 in just one day.
For those who find themselves struggling, there are many reputable animal welfare charities who can offer help and advice and anybody in a difficult situation is urged to seek support.
The RSPCA has launched a dedicated cost of living hub to signpost the help out there for owners and the charity also has more than 200 Pet Food Bank Partnerships across the country to support people.
