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Big rise in cats given up for financial reasons
"For many people, cats are part of the family, so it is naturally very difficult to be facing such an upsetting situation" – Peter Shergold.
A broad range of owners are now struggling with costs.

Cats Protection has seen a big increase in the number of cats being given up for financial reasons so far this year, as the cost-of-living crisis continues to hit pet owners.

During the period from January to May 2023, the charity saw an almost 50 per cent rise in the number of owners citing financial reasons when handing over a pet cat compared to the same period in the previous year.

Charities across the country, including Cats Protection, have been offering help to struggling owners through pet food banks and financial assistance towards pet care, including help with neutering costs.

However, the number of owners finding it difficult to afford to look after their pets is continuing to grow.

The most recent Animal Kindness Index highlighted that pet owners between 18-24 years old in particular were struggling with rising costs. But the problem is not confined to one group.

Cats Protection is being contacted by a variety of people finding it hard to afford to look after their pets, including a growing number of pensioners and households which would have been described as well-off before the cost-of-living crisis.

Peter Shergold, head of field operations at Cats Protection, said: “We are now regularly hearing from struggling owners who have had to make the heartbreaking decision to give up their cat because they can no longer afford the costs of their care. For many people, cats are part of the family, so it is naturally very difficult to be facing such an upsetting situation.

“Families remain the largest group citing financial reasons for giving up their cats, but we are also seeing an increase in older people and pensioners finding themselves in this position. Our research has been showing us that it is both low-income households and those who would have previously been described as well-off who are struggling financially to keep their cats.

“We’ve been working hard to support owners during the cost of living crisis and have set up an online hub where owners can find lots of information and support. We are doing everything we can to help more owners keep their cats, and we are grateful for the many animal lovers who have been supporting this work by making a donation.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.