Rehoming need causing pressure in the East

The RSPCA's Eastern Region are facing a cat crisis, which is thought to be a knock on effect of the recession.

Some branches in the region are reporting that they have up to 220 cats waiting to be rehomed - numbers which the RSPCA say they simply don't have enough room or funds to uphold.

Compared to previous years, the amount of cats under the RSPCA's care has dramatically increased, which is thought to be partly caused by the recession. Many households have a lower disposable income than in previous years, preventing rehoming, and causing some owners to give their cats up.

The RSPCA are urging owners to neuter their cats to prevent unwanted kittens and are asking anyone who is thinking of getting a cat to consider rehoming.

RSPCA animal welfare manager for the Eastern region, Paul Williams, said: "No matter which RSPCA branch or centre you speak to, in no matter what part of the region, they all say the same. They are dealing with a cat crisis and it is getting worse."