Appeal launched to cover vet costs for a dozen cats rescued from West Lothian home due to ‘out of control’ breeding

A fundraising appeal has been launched to help cover the vet costs of a dozen cats rescued from a West Lothian home due to “out of control” breeding.

The reality of unneutered cats living together was brought into sharp focus for the owner as their numbers quickly swelled, resulting in 13 cats. One of those cats is pregnant which means more kittens to come.

The West Lothian branch of Cats Protection was called in to aid the owner and it was agreed 12 of the cats would be removed, leaving one for their company which has now been neutered.

The branch’s volunteer fosterers have provided accommodation for the brood, which have affectionately been coined the ‘Darling Dozen.’

One of the rescued cats. Pic: West Lothian Cats Protection

All of the cats – bar the pregnant one – have been neutered, as well as vaccinated, microchipped and given flea and worm treatments. This costs up to £200 for each cat, to ensure they have a clean bill of health before being rehomed.

Usual fundraising events have largely been postponed or cancelled due to the pandemic, so the branch has launched a special appeal to help cover the vet costs - with more to come for the impending birth of the litter of kittens.

Anyone who would like to donate can do so HERE.

All the cats will soon be available for adoption, except the expectant mother who will remain with a fosterer. It is hoped they will be able to be rehomed in pairs, with two already enjoying life with their new family.

All of the cats – bar the pregnant one – have been neutered, as well as vaccinated, microchipped and given flea and worm treatments

Branch coordinator, David Cochrane, said: “This is a clear example of how unneutered cats living together can quickly spiral out of control as people don’t realise how easily and often female cats can fall pregnant. They are able to reproduce from as young as four months, and it is common for siblings to mate.

“We offer vouchers to help cover the cost of neutering for those on low incomes, which can be used at participating vets, and we urge people to get in touch with us to find out how we can help.

“Our brilliant team has been taking great care of the Darling Dozen, as well as many other cats who have unfortunately found themselves homeless. We appreciate anyone who feels able to donate to our fundraiser as we strive to help all these cats into happy forever homes.”

A recent survey of 1,000 cat owners by Cats Protection found that 77 percent of respondents were unaware cats could get pregnant from as young as four months old, while 86 percent did not know a female cat could produce up to 18 kittens in just one year.

Cats Protection has produced an infographic with useful tips for owners on how to stop cats becoming pregnant: https://bit.ly/2AmPwq9

For further information about the West Lothian Branch visit HERE.

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