A PEAK rise in orphaned kittens being handed into a Worcestershire cat shelter has led it to struggle to feed the growing demand.

The constant influx of unwanted kittens has started to provide a strain on Cat Protection's Worcester and Evesham branches.

The excess of kittens, too young to be away from their mothers, along with low adoption rates, has meant space and stocks of kitten food are becoming scarce.

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Dan Smith, rehoming and welfare Assistant at the centre, said: “Unfortunately, now that 75% of the cats in our care are kittens, we’re struggling to keep up with the demand for kitten food. As fast as we feed them, they’re hungry again!"

Three pairs of 13-week-old kittens were handed into the centre recently after their unneutered mother, Poppet - only a year old - gave birth to BonBon, Chewit, Sherbet, Marshmallow, Jellytot and Gumdrop.

Poppet's previous owners could not care for her and her young family, so they were sent to a shelter.

The charity centres in Worcester and Evesham currently have 67 cats in care between them and almost the same number again on their combined waiting lists.

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Cat Protection said there are many ways cat lovers can help the kittens thrive, and the charity to take in more cats.

Deputy manager, Bethany Roberts, said: “Whether you are able to donate some kitten food, volunteer to teach young cats about the world, foster a pregnant stray or adopt a moggy in need of a home, we’d love to hear from you.

“And if your own cat isn’t already neutered, that’s the best gift you can give your cat, your finances and us.

"It not only prevents unwanted litters now and in the future, but also helps prevent disease and will ensure you don’t have the stress of vet bills relating to pregnancy.”

To donate some kitten food, visit the centre’s wish list or drop it off at the green shed on Pitcher’s Hill in Wickhamford or the centre’s food bins at Tesco or  Morrisons in Evesham.

Further information about volunteering to be a fosterer can be found here.