Cotswolds charity overwhelmed by abandoned cats and kittens

The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home (CDCH) has taken in 68 cats since the start of 2026—an average of four per week.

With waiting lists at capacity, the charity is now making an urgent appeal for public donations to help provide emergency care, veterinary treatment, shelter, and daily support for the growing number of arrivals.

Sam Herniman, a representative of CDCH, said: “Behind these shocking statistics are the faces of vulnerable animals, each a precious life in urgent need of care.

“This kitten season will be one of the busiest we’ve ever faced and we’re calling on animal lovers to join forces and donate, so together we can be there for every cat and kitten that needs us.”

The charity is currently caring for four litters of kittens (Image: The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home)

The centre is currently caring for four litters of kittens, including six-week-old strays Walter and Jesse. Frankie and Otis are undergoing treatment for painful eye infections.

Other cats include May, a stray mother raising newborn kittens June, July, and August.

Wilma, a two-year-old mother, arrived with a kitten from a previous litter and has since given birth to five more.

The surge in abandoned cats reflects a nationwide trend, with organisations like the RSPCA reporting a rise in pet abandonments since 2021 due to post-pandemic challenges and the cost-of-living crisis.

CDCH is also using the appeal to highlight the importance of neutering as a long-term solution to reducing unwanted litters and easing the strain on rescue centres.