AN ANIMAL charity received hundreds of calls across Flintshire and Wrexham over concerns for the welfare of cats.
Data for 2018 shows that cats are one of the most neglected animals and almost 900 calls were received by RSPCA Cymru.
Flintshire saw 409 calls made and Wrexham saw 430 over cat welfare.
Across England and Wales, the charity received more than 100,000 calls and rescues more cats than any other animal - whether this is moggies stuck in tight spots, to cats that have been abandoned or neglected and abused.
This International Cat Day (August 8) the RSPCA is shining a light on the plight of cats and how people can help them.
Alice Potter, RSPCA’s cat welfare expert said: “It’s sad to see that we have received so many calls about cats in need.
“Cats end up needing our help for a variety of reasons, for example their natural curiosity can mean they need rescuing when they get into scrapes and tricky situations.
“There are also some real issues that we see time and again including cats and kittens being abandoned, cats having unplanned and unwanted pregnancies due to a lack of neutering and multi-cat households where breeding has sadly become out of control.
“However, there are many cats who are much luckier and are very much a part of the family and loved by their owners who understand their likes and dislikes, their little quirks and routines.”
The charity has offered tips for understanding cat behaviour, which include ensuring cats have cosy hiding places around the house.
A cat who is feeling friendly will approach with their tail held upright and the tip of the tail curved, however the charity said most cats prefer to initiate interaction.
Alice added: “Every cat is an individual but there are some signs we can look out for to see how our cats are feeling through understanding their body language and behaviour to ensure they are happy and healthy.”
Other tips include not rubbing a cat’s belly as they may act defensively. Cats may roll onto their back which is a sign they feel comfortable and safe but instead of rubbing their tummy, stroke their head or cheeks.
The charity is also urging people to keep an eye on changes in behaviour and seek advice from your vet.
Figures for 2018 also showed that Wales as a whole received 8,098 calls over cat welfare - Cardiff, Swansea and Rhondda Cynon Taff received the most calls.
As well as 8,098 calls – RSPCA officers rescued around 1,514 cats.
RSPCA Bryn-Y-Maen Animal Centre in Upper Colwyn Bay currently has 27 cats looking for homes, including Hector, pictured.
Anyone who would like to rehome and RSPCA cat should visit the website
.
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