Three cats have been found inside a taped-up cardboard box and dumped by some bins in Gillingham, and the RSPCA is asking the public for their help.
The charity rescued the cats after a passerby collected the cardboard box – used to store crisp packets – and found three cats and three empty food bowls inside in Skinner Street on Thursday 14 March.
RSPCA Inspector Kirsten Ormerod collected the cats, which were riddled with fleas, and took them to the RSPCA Isle of Thanet Branch for some much-needed care and attention.
Last year, amid the cost of living crisis, the RSPCA received 20,999 calls about an abandoned animal – more than in 2022, 2021 and 2020.
She said: “These three cats were sadly abandoned in a taped-up cardboard box and dumped by some bins. They were frightened and distressed, struggling from heavy flea burdens and scabs, and were also very nervous. Thankfully, I was able to take them into the care of a local branch where they are now getting the care and love they need.”
The three-year-old cats, two male and one female, are not microchipped but have been named Cliff, Frank and Vera by staff, and are doing well in RSPCA care. Frank is very confident and has settled in quickly and Cliff and Vera are still a little nervous but gaining confidence every day.
Kirsten added: “We’re now appealing for help and asking the public to please contact us on 0300 123 8018 quoting 1236114 if they have any information about this.
“We understand that the cost of living crisis has had an impact on people’s finances and some people may be struggling to care for their pets. Reports about animals being abandoned and dumped are rising, and we’re seeing more animals coming into our care.
“But in the tough financial climate, we’re doing everything we can to keep pets in loving homes, and support owners. We’ve committed £1.5million of extra funding to crisis measures; launched a Cost of Living Hub and a dedicated telephone helpline, while our pet food bank partnerships are going from strength to strength, having given out 1.5million pet meals last year.
“And our incredible supporters have been helping create a better world for every animal – backing this vital work, spreading cost-saving advice, and highlighting to anyone looking to add a pet to their family to choose a rescue animal – like the countless amazing dogs, cats, rabbits and other pets looking for a second chance of happiness on our dedicated Find a Pet website.”
This year the RSPCA celebrates its 200th birthday and to mark this special anniversary the animal welfare charity wants to inspire one million people to join our movement to improve animals’ lives. To find out how you can join our million-strong movement for animals visit www.rspca.org.uk/200
