New data unveiled during the RSPCA's Adoptober rehoming drive reveals that the number of cats being cared for just in the charity's fourteen national centres who are waiting for homes at any one time has more than doubled from some 800 in 2020 to around 1,700 this summer.
RSPCA records also showed cats are now waiting more than a week longer to find a new home - 40 days on average, a rise from 32.5 days in September last year - a 23 per cent increase.
At the Ashley Heath Animal Centre, the RSPCA's main site in Dorset, the charity says it is completely full and unable to take any more cats. Of the 42 cats they currently have on site many are sick and/or are being rehabilitated.
Remi at RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre is looking for a new home to call her own. Remi came from a multi-cat household and has cared very well for her kittens whilst at the centre and is now ready for some well deserved me time.
(Image: RSPCA)
Due to Remi's nervous nature she is looking for an adult-only home. Remi could live with another cat if given the time and space to get to know each other but can't live with dogs.
The rise in numbers is partly due to several recent large-scale cruelty and neglect cases which have led to high numbers of cats - like Remi.
RSPCA cat welfare specialist, Alice Potter said: "We have an astonishing number of cats in our care who are looking for a new home. Many - like Remi - have come from recent large-scale cruelty and neglect cases.
"We're experiencing an unprecedented rehoming crisis, with centres so full they are unable to accept any more cats - so most of the incoming animals are having to be placed in private catteries until spaces become free in our own rehoming centres.
"Despite the best efforts of those who care for them, life in a cattery can be stressful for cats so by finding them loving homes as quickly as possible we can also free up space for other cats who need our help."
Another feline looking for her forever home is Ophelia, a 3-year-old tortie and white Maine Coon who is being cared for by the team at RSPCA Dorset Taylor's Rehoming Centre in Dorchester.
She is a friendly girl who can be a little shy initially. She enjoys a fuss but is not keen on being picked up and likes her own space sometimes. She would need people around a lot of the day and safe outdoor access away from busy roads. She does not get on with other animals but could live with older children.
(Image: RSPCA)
Alice added: "We'd urge anyone ready and able to adopt a rescue animal to fill in a 'perfect match' form with your local RSPCA centre or branch and they'll let you know when an animal who matches you comes into their care."
More information about cats and other animals available for adoption can be found on the RSPCA's 'Findapet' webpage.