Marion Parsons, the director of Newbridge Cat Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Cleobury Mortimer, has expressed concern over a worsening situation with stray cats in Shropshire. The 77-year-old, who has operated the center for 22 years, noted that rising neutering costs are contributing to the surge of unneutered animals.
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Parsons revealed that the number of cats neutered nationwide dropped from 88% in 2020 to 82% in the previous year, as more pet owners struggle with expenses. Some veterinarians are now charging up to £200 for neutering a single cat, discouraging many from taking action. As a result, Parsons has seen an increase in people bringing cats to her facility or abandoning them.
Recently, she invested £700 to neuter five cats received at her center. Additionally, she has observed a rise in unwanted litters; her center currently houses 26 kittens along with their mothers.
Parsons indicated that the rising costs of food and veterinary bills are also driving abandonment, leading to an overwhelming situation where she is unable to assist all those seeking help. "It's just a bit sad really. I do what I can but I get a lot of people coming in and I can't help everybody because I'm on my own," she stated.