A struggling cat rescue centre has expressed its “eternal gratitude” after supporters rallied to help pay off a £7,000 vet bill, saving it from possible closure.
Friends of Felines, based in Halstead, provides care and rehoming services for cats across Hertfordshire, Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, and Cambridgeshire.
Earlier this week, co-owner Penelope White told the BBC that mounting vet bills had put the centre at risk of shutting down.
However, thanks to an outpouring of community generosity, the charity has now fully cleared its debt and secured treatment for cats suffering from a viral disease.
In a heartfelt online statement, the rescue centre said: “What a week it has been. From the very bottom of our hearts, we cannot thank you all enough for your support.
“As a rescue centre caring for cats in need, the future is always uncertain, and we simply couldn’t do this without you. The food donations have been phenomenal, and we are eternally grateful.”
The centre’s monthly expenses typically range from £4,000 to £6,000, with funds often disappearing as quickly as they come in.
However, costs “tripled” over the Christmas period due to an influx of elderly cats and those suffering from Feline Infectious Peritonitis, a severe viral disease.
As a result, Ms White previously stated that the centre, which houses up to 50 cats at a time, would be forced to “ignore the phone” for the next few months to manage resources.
Describing the difficult winter as “the perfect storm,” she said the centre had no choice but to cut back in order to survive.
“We do this for the cats who might never have known love and kindness without our help,” Ms White added.
“We cannot express enough how thankful we are to everyone who has supported us during this time of need.”