The RSPCA is appealing for information after two kittens were abandoned in a carrier outside a shop in Kings Heath, Birmingham.
The ten-week-old kittens were found by a shopkeeper on Silver Street at around 8am on 20 October. They had been left in a cellotaped shut cat carrier in the rain. The shopkeeper brought them inside, gave them food, water and a litter tray, and contacted the RSPCA for help.
The incident comes as data from the RSPCA reveals reports of animal abandonment last year reached a five year high – with 22,503 incidents logged in 2024 alone. The charity has launched The Big Give Back to Animals to support the work of its frontline officers at this time.
Animal Rescue Officer Sarah Guest collected the kittens and took them to the RSPCA Birmingham Animal Centre for care. She said: “The kittens had mild conjunctivitis but were otherwise healthy. Thankfully, the shopkeeper acted quickly to bring them inside before they became too cold or distressed. He told me he’d seen someone leave the carrier outside but they didn’t come back.”
The kittens are now being cared for at the RSPCA Shropshire Branch and have been named Max (black and white) and Stevie (tabby and white). They will be available for rehoming if no owner comes forward soon.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018quoting reference number 01660920.
Officer Guest added: “Abandoning defenceless animals like these kittens is never the answer. We understand the cost-of-living crisis is affecting many people, and we’re here to offer advice and support to anyone struggling with their pets.”
Dr Samantha Gaines, Head of Companion Animals at the RSPCA, said:”Sadly, last year, incidents of animal abandonment being reported to the RSPCA reached a five year high.
“We know it’s a really tough time for pet owners – and the cost of living crisis has made things exceptionally challenging, with our Animal Kindness Index revealing that 74% of owners think caring for their pet is more expensive than a year ago. But dumping an animal is never, ever the answer.
“Fortunately, there is hope. Our frontline rescuers are doing all they can to help animals experiencing the very worst cruelty and neglect – including those who have tragically been left to fend for themselves; while our incredible animal centres are finding new homes for countless rescued animals each year.
“But we need people’s support to keep our work going. That’s why we’ve launched The Big Give Back to Animals this winter, to raise vital funds for our frontline teams, and to ensure we can keep being there for the animals who give us so much, and ask for so little in return.”
The RSPCA is also urging pet owners to neuter and microchip their cats. Neutering prevents unwanted litters and often leads to healthier, happier cats.
Female cats can become pregnant from just four months old, with the potential to produce up to 18 kittens per year. The RSPCA rescues more than 20,000 cats annually, with peak intake between May and September.
When an animal is in need, the quicker they get help the better.
If you find a small pet who has been abandoned, take them directly to a local vet or rescue centre. These teams can call in the expertise of our teams if there’s evidence that the animal has been neglected or abused. There’s more information on how to safely handle and transport an animal on the RSPCA website.
The RSPCA also offers advice and support to pet-owners who may be struggling to look after their pets at a time of rising prices.
The dedicated cost of living crisis page on the RSPCA website offers tips on how to save money, how to reduce vets’ bills and how to find a pet food bank.
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