Lockdown cat-buying boom ‘cause for concern’
RSPCA FEARS MORE WILL END UP NEEDING TO BE RESCUED
THE RSPCA says it fears a boom in kitten buying could lead to more cats going into rescue centres and needing new homes.
The charity said July saw Google searches for “Kittens near me” increase sixfold compared to the same period last year.
It urged anyone thinking of getting a pet to consider whether they can care for them in the long-term and not just for a pandemic.
The charity said it has responded to almost 1,000 calls involving cats in Leicestershire this year.
Alice Potter, the RSPCA’s cat welfare expert, said: “It’s fantastic so many people are interested in bringing a cat into their home this year.
“However, with such high increases in people searching for kittens online, it’s important prospective owners are doing their research and not buying a kitten on impulse.
“This means making sure they have the time, money and resources to care for a cat for the rest of their lives, but also ensuring that if buying a kitten they are buying a healthy and happy kitten from a responsible breeder.
“It’s true that we see much higher cases of puppy farms than unscrupulous kitten breeders, but it does happen which is why it’s so important to do your research and make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller. “Sadly, we do see cases of cats coming into our care who have been bought without the correct vaccinations, care or attention.
“The results can not only be devastating for the cats themselves but also the new owners who have to provide the time and cost it takes to look after these very poorly kittens.
“This is why the RSPCA and other cat charities have come together to create The Kitten Checklist to provide vital information, such as ensuring you see the kitten with its mum and siblings in the place where they were bred, and peace of mind for anyone looking to bring a kitten.”
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It’s important prospective owners are doing their research and not buying a kitten on impulse Alice Potter