iStockThe Scottish SPCA is appealing to rural householders to help home dozens of cats from a feral colony.
The animal welfare charity has teamed up with Cats Protection to trap and neuter around 60 cats of various ages ahead of the colony being dispersed.
Gillian Dick, Scottish SPCA inspector, said: “Normally we would simply neuter feral cats and return them to their territory.
“However, this colony is very large and has become dependent on an elderly member of the public for food.
“They are struggling to care for the cats and there are concerns what will happen to the animals in the future if the situation is left unchecked.
“We want to disperse the colony and relocate the cats as pairs or single animals to rural properties throughout Scotland.”
The cats will need to have a secure, indoor space where they can settle in initially until they are used to their new home.
Inspector Dick added: “We must stress that these animals are feral and will not be suitable as pets in a normal household.
“However, they are likely to be excellent mousers and would thrive as working animals in a rural or farm setting.”
A Cats Protection spokesman added: “We are pleased to be working closely with the Scottish SPCA to find a solution to this feral situation.
“This is a good example of what we can do working together for animal welfare, and we look forward to finding more suitable homes for these cats.”
If you think you could provide a home for some of the cats, call the Scottish SPCA’s animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
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