The number of multi-cat rescues has soared by 67 per cent.
The RSPCA is struggling to find homes for an ever-growing number of felines amid a staggering rise in multi-cat rescues across England and Wales.
According to new figures released by the charity, there has been a 67 per cent increase in mass cat rescues over the past year. In 2025, the RSPCA dealt with 1,752 incidents involving 10 or more cats in a single property, equating to nearly five rescues every day.
This represents a staggering 186 per cent increase since 2021, when 613 incidents were recorded, putting unprecedented pressure on the charity’s resources. The situation has been made worse by the summer breeding peak, whihc has left rescue centres overflowing with unwanted kittens and pregnant mums.
Beth Clements, RSPCA assistant director of animal services, said: “We’re seeing a huge influx and it’s having a big impact on our centres and branches - in June alone we took in more than 550 cats. For the first time ever, we have more cats in our care than dogs.
“With cat-breeding season well underway, an increase in multi-cat incidents and adoptions slowing down over the summer months, there are simply more cats and kittens coming into our care than we have the space for.”
“We’re desperate for adopters and fosterers to come forward and help free up space in our centres, so we can help more cats rescued from cruelty and neglect.”
Last year, the RSPCA responded to 75 large-scale incidents involving more than 100 animals being rescued from the same property.
It can be linked to mental health struggles, the cost-of-living crisis or breeders operating with poor practices. The RSPCA also said that initially well-meaning individuals can often see situations spiral out of control.
Image (C) RSPCA.
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