Nearly 30 “unwell, filthy, and frightened” cats were rescued from a property where they were found living in “appalling squalor.” The RSPCA inspectors rescued the cats and kittens on June 12, following concerns raised after the death of a resident in the Swindon home.
Six young kittens were taken to the Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home in Cambridge, Gloucestershire, while the remaining 21 cats were placed in various rescue centers. The home is now seeking donations to cover the costs of medical treatment, special food, and around-the-clock care for the rescued animals.
The conditions the kittens were found in were dire: they were seriously unwell, suffering from severe anemia, respiratory infections, sore eyes, and other flu-like symptoms. The Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home named the kittens Bellingham, Rice, Harry, Pickford, Gareth, and Foden to honor their fighting spirit and as a tribute to the England team participating in UEFA Euros 2024.
Covered in fleas and filth, and matted with their own excrement, the cats were in desperate need of care. “The staff here at the Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home are determined to do whatever it takes to give these kittens a fighting chance, but they’re extremely poorly, anemic, and very weak,” stated the rescue center.
This situation underscores the importance of vigilant animal welfare efforts and community support for rescue organizations.
Two of the kittens required emergency veterinary care at a hospital, where they received intensive treatment including IV fluids and antibiotics. Tragically, despite these efforts, they passed away. The remaining 21 cats, relocated to various rescue centers, are reported to be “understandably scared and timid” according to RSPCA officers.
The situation remains critical for the four surviving kittens at Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home, who are now facing a challenging battle for survival. The rescue center emphasized that the road ahead is fraught with difficulties, highlighting the ongoing need for specialized care and support.