The RSPCA is calling for a ban on the harmful breeding of cats with extreme looks.
The RSPCA has warned of a feline breeding crisis after a pair of designer cats spent just 24 hours in one home before being given up.
According to the animal charity, the owner had made a 500-mile round trip to collect the animals, before realising they were not the ‘easy’ pets they had assumed them to be.
The striking Sphynx/American Curl cross siblings, named Jelly and Custard, are thought to be around two years old. When they were put up for adoption by the RSPCA Canterbury Branch, they became an overnight sensation — garnering so much interest the website crashed.
Jelly and Custard had already been in care at another local rescue centre before arriving at the RSPCA, having bounced between owners who were initially bowled over by their unique looks but ended up struggling to fulfil their care needs.
Branch manager Natalie Archer said: “Before they came to us, these poor cats were being passed around like unwanted handbags — but they aren’t fashion accessories, they’re sentient beings who feel fear and pain, joy and happiness. They didn’t deserve this start in life, but sadly, cats like these are trendy and fashionable and they’re the tip of the iceberg of a breeding crisis.”
Now, the RSPCA is calling for the harmful breeding of cats with extreme looks to become “so last season”. The charity’s new “End the Trend” campaign reveals eight out of 10 people support the banning of pets with exaggerated physical features.
Hairless cats require specialist care, including regular bathing, eye cleaning, and protection from the sun. They also have a demanding temperament and can be prone to health problems like heart disease, requiring ongoing medical attention.
Thankfully, Jelly and Custard have found a new home with Heather Morris from Margate, who already had experience with the breed and understood the level of care and attention required.
Heather said: “Jelly and Custard are pretty healthy and appear to be at the less extreme end of the spectrum with regards to the potentially harmful traits bred into them — but you’ve got to make sure you’re prepared for the financial cost, as even things like routine ear care add up.
“They’re an expensive and time-consuming breed to have. I wouldn’t trade them for the world, but people need to be aware of what’s involved when taking pets like these on. And ideally, always adopt rather than shop — there are so many amazing animals who need loving homes.”
Image (C) RSPCA.
