Kildare animal charity reveals reason it had to rehome 60 cats so far this year

A Kildare-based animal charity has revealed the reason it has had to rehome 60 cats so far this year.

The comments follow unsubstantiated claims on social media that cats were being dumped in two different regions of Newbridge.

When asked by the Leinster Leader about these rumours, a spokesperson for the Kildare and West-Wicklow Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (KWWSPCA) said: "I have only heard about the kittens through Facebook and could not confirm or deny it has happened. 

"We do ask people to contact us for help with kittens and have over 120 kittens in our care."

The rep also alleged that there are "huge issues with landlords not allowing pets".

They elaborated: "We have had over 60 cats in for rehoming this year due to this sad ruling that has emerged among landlords," making reference to the "blanket ban" on pets in many tenancy agreements throughout Ireland.

"The last two cats came in last Saturday and they are 15 years old," they explained. "The owner was distraught and we are having to support people emotionally through this process."

They concluded: "I think it is an issue that should be highlighted and stopped."

It should be noted that the KWWSPCA carries out a "Trap / Neuter / Return" (TNR) service.

According to its official website, back in 2022, 405 feral cats in County Kildare and West Wicklow were trapped, neutered and returned by KWWSPCA volunteers.

For further information about this service, visit https://kwwspca.ie/kwwspca-tnr-trap-neuter-return/.

The KWWSPCA asks for a donation of €50 per cat for the TNR service whenever possible.

In addition, anyone who wishes to seek help regarding feral cats, pet cats or handled kittens can contact Elaine or Clare of the KWWSPCA's Cat Welfare branch on 087 343 9803.

READ NEXT: Family resource centre in Kildare issues heartwarming update ahead of holiday break