Cats in crisis
More than one in six cats arriving at our member charity Mayhew this year have been abandoned — with cases more than doubling compared to the same period last year.
So far in 2026, Mayhew has seen a 110% increase in cat abandonments compared to 2025. This sudden rise is placing significant pressure on their already stretched resources and facilities.
Worryingly, around 34% of the abandoned cats are kittens, highlighting ongoing concerns about unwanted litters and preventable abandonments.
In just four days in early June, 16 cats were abandoned, filling more than a third of Mayhew’s 42 cat cabins in less than a week.
Among those arriving were tiny kittens like Adam and Nathan, found in a cardboard box in a park at just 12 weeks old. That same week, another litter was discovered abandoned in a carrier and brought to Mayhew. At such a young age, these kittens are incredibly vulnerable and need round‑the‑clock care to keep them safe and healthy. Thanks to Mayhew, they are now receiving the support they need before they can be rehomed.
Sadly, stories like these are becoming increasingly common, and many more kittens have since arrived in Mayhew’s care.
Mayhew’s Head of Cattery, Leyla, shared: “Almost every week we are finding abandoned carriers outside our doors, kittens in boxes in parks, and litters of kittens being left next to bus stops. While we remain committed to helping every animal who comes through our doors, this increase is placing significant pressure on our resources and services.”
Across all our member charities, demand is rising — yet their commitment never wavers. Every animal is given essential veterinary treatment, safe shelter, nutritious food, and the chance to begin again.
You can help make sure no animal is left behind
During these difficult times, your support means everything. With you by their side, our member charities can continue to be there for cats like Adam and Nathan — and for every animal who needs safety, care and hope.