More than 1,000 cats subjected to 'unimaginable cruelty' in Wales last year - RSPCA

The cost-of-living crisis is also thought to be a contributing factor to an increase in deliberate harm to animals at a time when the cost of rescuing animals is at an all-time high. Credit: RSPCA

More than 1,000 cats were subjected to "unimaginable cruelty" in Wales last year, new figures show.

It comes as the cost of living crisis and pandemic are being blamed for "creating an animal welfare crisis" with "vital services are stretched to the limit".

In total, the RSPCA said there were 1,072 cat cruelty reports in 2022 and out of these complaints, 600 were calls concerning neglect and 89 calls were regarding intentional harm incidents.

With three reports made every single minute, the charity released the figures as part of its 'Cancel Out Cruelty' campaign, raising aid for its frontline rescue teams.

The cost-of-living crisis is also thought to be a contributing factor to an increase in deliberate harm to animals at a time when the cost of rescuing animals is at an all-time high.

Elaine Spence, one of the three chief inspectors in Wales said: "Right now, animal cruelty is happening across Wales on a massive scale and rising.

"While we don’t know for certain why there has been an increase, the cost of living crisis and the post-pandemic world we live in has created an animal welfare crisis.... and our vital services are stretched to the limit."

After being abandoned, Hetty has been staying at the Upper Colwyn Bay centre for more than a year. Credit: RSPCA

The Bryn-y-Maen Animal Centre staff is caring for more than 54 cats and is supporting the hand rearing of an additional 12 kittens. Additionally, RSPCA Newport Animal Centre looks after around 16 cats. 

Marlene was abandoned in a property and is now looking for a home. Credit: RSPCA

After being abandoned, Hetty has been staying at the Upper Colwyn Bay centre for more than a year.

The cat has gained confidence since being at the centre and is playful and friendly.

Gill Hillan, the RSPCA's press officer in Wales told ITV Cymru Wales: "We often see animal abandonment, especially cats, because they can have lots of litters and kittens.

"They might be unwanted in the financially cost of living crisis because people cannot afford to keep them."

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