CATS in Rugby have a brighter future after the town’s branch of the Cats Protection charity was resurrected.
The charity’s Rugby branch was forced to close in November 2018 due to a lack of volunteers – but has been brought back to life thanks to the will and determination of a group of feline lovers.
The charity has already welcomed its first unwanted cats into care and is trying to find them permanent homes.
Orla and her four five-week-old kittens – Otis, Oliver, Opal and Omelia – have been welcomed into a fosterer’s home where they are undergoing a kitten socialisation programme to ensure they will be happy and confident when they are adopted.
A trio of kittens has also been taken on by the charity – which were named after famous puppets Sooty, Sweep and Soo by Facebook users.
They are now ready for rehoming, with Sweep and Soo needing to be rehomed together, while the more confident Sooty can be adopted on his own.
Coordinator Anne Barnard said: “It has been great to be able to get the Rugby Branch of Cats Protection up and running again. We are committed to helping as many local cats as possible.
“We have been recruiting new volunteers like mad but always welcome new people who share our love of cats.
“Volunteering for Cats Protection is a fun and rewarding experience, particularly if you have a skill that would benefit the charity or would like to develop new skills by taking on a fresh challenge.
“Our volunteers gain a great deal of satisfaction helping cats get a second chance in life.”
Among the roles the branch is hoping to fill soon is Home Visit volunteer. Home visitors help find suitable homes for cats, as well as provide support for new owners.
Volunteers are also needed to help with publicity, fundraising and fostering. No experience is required as full training will be provided.
Visit www.cats.org.uk/rugby/volunteering for more information. Visit www.cats.org.uk/get-involved/volunteering to see a short video about volunteering for Cats Protection.
