The four young kittens were found abandoned in Bruce Castle Park last week

Concerns have been raised over the rising number of domestic pets being left abandoned in public parks and green spaces in Haringey.

The latest incident involved four young kittens who were found in Bruce Castle Park on Monday (19th) prior to being transported over to the RSPCA’s animal hospital in Finsbury Park to receive the care and attention they needed.

Animal abandonment is at a three-year high, according to the RSPCA, which received 30% more reports of abandoned animals last year than they did in 2020.

Their Animal Kindness Index also found that a growing number of people are finding keeping pets more expensive (78%) and are worried about the costs of feeding their animals.

Amid fears that the cost-of-living crisis is to blame for this sharp increase in cases, the charity is doing all it can to keep pets in loving homes. It has launched a Cost of Living Hub and a dedicated phone helpline to support owners.

The RSPCA has also provided over 1.5 million meals through its pet food bank scheme and committed £1.5m of extra funding to crisis measures.

Anyone who is struggling to care for their pet should reach out for help and speak to their friends and family, a local charity or your vet.

Residents who do come across an animal they believe has been abandoned should take them to a rescue charity or a local vet for urgent care. To report animal cruelty or neglect, visit the RSPCA website.

Pet owners can also play their part in helping to tackle the cat overpopulation crisis by neutering their feline friends.

The RSPCA helpline for pet owners is available Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm:
Call 0300 123 0650

There is also a network of pet foodbanks for owners struggling with the cost of living:
Visit rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/costofliving/foodbank

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