Cat rescuers worry where their animals will go as a centre’s landlord wants the land back.

Precious Paws Cat Rescue has been based in Springwell Lane, Rickmansworth, land that it leases from Affinity Water for five years but was given notice that the lease would not be renewed earlier this year.

Operator Jacqui Schafer, who also lives at the site, says it has been “very hard” to find somewhere else to operate the cattery, with no suitable locations turning up so far.

Springwell Cattery.Springwell Cattery. (Image: Precious Paws) “We’ve got to rehome 28 cats and kittens before December, when we have to leave,” she said. “We’ve had to turn some cats down because we don’t know what were going to do, which is really frustrating and upsetting.”

Precious Paws has rehomed around 500 pets during its time at Springwell Cattery. 

It has now put out an urgent call for anyone looking to adopt or foster cats and kittens to get in touch. Where any pets that are not rehomed will go if Precious Paws does not arrange a new location before its closure remains uncertain.

One of the cats in need of adoption. (Image: Precious Paws) “There are a lot cases at the moment and we know we’ve got the space but we can’t take them in.” the qualified animal carer said.

“We’re despondent and upset. Staff will be losing jobs. I’ll be losing my home and my job.”

Two of the cats in need of adoption.Two of the cats in need of adoption. (Image: Precious Paws)

She added: “Luckily I’ve got my mum in Watford, so I can move back in with her, but the idea is still to try and find somewhere else.”

Jacqui, who is in her 50s, bears no ill will to Affinity Water and recognises that it is the end of the contract and proper notice was given. However, she says she hopes the water company will reconsider its decision.

(Image: Precious Paws) An Affinity Water spokesperson said it acknowledges and appreciates the value of Precious Paws’ work and role in the community. However, they highlighted that the contract always had a fixed term with no right of renewal.

“The tenant has enjoyed peaceful use of the premises throughout the lease period,” they added.

“However, we now require the premises for operational purposes in the wider public interest.”

Affinity Water has offered a tenancy at will until January 22, 2025, to allow additional time to find a new premises.