THE COORDINATOR of Montrose and Brechin Cats Protection has made a plea for some of the centre’s older cats to be homed before Christmas.
Jenny Turnbull said the centre has been struggling to find people to adopt older cats aged between eight and 10.
She pointed out cats can live until they are around 20, so the older cats still had a long life ahead of them.
Jenny (57), who has been the coordinator for the charity for four years, said: “One of the cats was a stray from a fish and chip shop, so we’ve called him Mr Chips.
“He is black and white and around 10 years old and was in a very bad way when he came to us. He had been living on the streets and was very thin.
“He had a bad eye which needed an operation and he also required extensive dental work.
“But now that he’s been with us for six months he is a very strong handsome boy who could easily live for another 10 years. He loves company and is full of life.”
Last year theMontrose and Brechin branch rehomed around 90 cats but numbers are down this year, which Jenny puts down to difficulties in rehoming the older moggies.
Some cats have had to be given to other Cats Protection branches due to lack of space.
All the animals are given a health check, are fully vaccinated, microchipped, neutered and treated for fleas and worms. There is an adoption fee of £50 but this only partly covers the vet costs.
She added: “It’s been harder to rehome cats this year, perhaps due to the economic situation. Strays are still a big problem in Angus.
“As well as Mr Chips we have several other older cats. Mollie a friendly fluffy girl who was given to us because of her owner’s ill-health.
“A shy grey cat called Cloudy was given to us after a company that was feeding her went out of business.
“There’s also a black and white girl called Cookie and tabbies Mike and Katy.
“Older cats do tend to live safer lives than younger cats, staying closer to home andpreferring a warm fireside to the great outdoors. They make wonderful companions.
Montrose and Brechin Cats Protection is on 0845 371 2738.