Marion Parsons, 77, who operates the Newbridge Cat Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Cleobury Mortimer, Shropshire, is witnessing an increase in stray cats, attributed to the rising costs of neutering. Parsons, who has managed the center for 22 years, believes that financial strain is discouraging owners from neutering their pets, resulting in more unwanted animals.
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She noted that an increasing number of people are bringing their cats to her centre instead of seeking rehoming options. Parsons is facing challenges in finding homes for these cats. Nationally, the neutering rate has dropped from 88% in 2020 to 82% in the previous year, according to Cats Protection.
Parsons pointed out that some veterinary practices are charging as much as £200 to neuter a single cat, making it unaffordable for many pet owners. As a result, some individuals are abandoning their cats or surrendering them to her centre. Recently, Parsons incurred costs of £700 to neuter five cats received at her facility.