Children have been left in tears as families were forced to give up their cats because they can no longer afford to look after them.

Precious Paws Cat Rescue in Rickmansworth has taken in so many cats in recent weeks that it has had to close its doors to potential newcomers.

Owner Jacqui Schafer said people are struggling because of the cost of living crisis.

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She said: “Some people say they can’t afford to look after the cats.

“Some won’t say that, but if you read between the lines, cost of living is the reason.

“Children have been upset that they have had to hand over the cats.

“There have been tears, tears from the adults too.

“We’ve had one case when a cat had been with its owner for 11 years.

“It’s a hard thing to deal with.”

Watford Observer: Oscar was frightened when he first went to the cat rescue, but he is ready for a new home now. Picture: Jacqui SchaferOscar was frightened when he first went to the cat rescue, but he is ready for a new home now. Picture: Jacqui Schafer

The rescue organisation has reached its capacity of 50 cats and kittens, which are now being looked after at the centre or at foster homes, and Ms Schafer fears there is a chance things will get worse.

She said: “I think there are going to be a lot more cases as the year goes on, especially if we go into a recession.”

The financial crisis is also impacting the cat rescue, which does not benefit from any funding and pays for food, cat litter and vet bills.

Ms Schafer is calling for any help, whether through donations, more foster carers coming on board or families ready to adopt.

Watford Observer: These kittens are ready to be rehomed. Picture: Jacqui SchaferThese kittens are ready to be rehomed. Picture: Jacqui Schafer

Permanently rehoming cats has been a problem in recent weeks.

Ms Schafer said: “I hope it’s because it’s the summer holidays and more people will come in in September.”

With 10 cats on the waiting list and more to be expected, Ms Schafer said new foster homes will be welcome.

She said: “When we take cats in, we give them time love and attention and that’s what we want foster carers to do.

“We pay for food and litter.”

Ms Schafer and her team’s work has increased over recent weeks.

She added: “But I love animals and I want to try and help them.”

If you would like to contact Precious Paws Cat Rescue, vist https://www.preciouspawscatrescue.com/. 

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