If you’ve been following us on social media, you’ll know that we have had many kittens this year but also an increase in abandonments at the centre. This isn’t unique to the RSPCA Coventry & District. We work with rescues across the region, and can see from the social media of others, that this isn’t just affecting us. What we’re seeing suggests this is a much wider issue than our centre alone

Why is the cat population growing in Coventry? 

It is growing for several reasons: 

• Not everyone is neutering their cats 
• Not everyone can afford to neuter their cats 
• Not everyone can afford to look after their cats

These three reasons create a snowball effect. We’ve had a 59% increase in cat intakes this year compared to the same time period last year and until we can raise awareness at a city-wide level, we don't see the issue resolving. 

This, unfortunately, isn’t solvable by rescues alone. We can’t rescue our way out of this due to the numbers. A 59% increase is over 140 extra cats or kittens at the centre despite our centre only having space for 80 cats at any one time. We know from the rescues we work with across the region that we’re not alone in facing this pressure. We all have a fixed amount of space but the cat population continues to grow. 

What is the solution?

Affordable neutering and support for those with pets who are struggling with the cost of living. Our aim is to increase awareness of why neutering matters and why keeping cats vaccinated and healthy is so important. We’re hoping to start conversations with the councils across our region to see what we can do together.

We can provide neutering at our vet clinic, and all the animals we rehome are neutered, but this only makes a small dent in the increasing numbers. Pet owners need to be aware of why they should neuter and where to get help if they are struggling to afford the operation.

What individuals can do to help cats across Coventry. 

The centre is here to provide help and support, pet food and subsidised vet costs to keep cats and dogs healthy. And if you’re in desperate need and are looking to give up your animal: talk to us first. 

We’re also asking for new foster carers for cats. All costs are covered when fostering a rescue cat and it helps us with the current crisis. 

We’ll continue to do what we can to reduce the cat crisis in Coventry.