The Scottish SPCA as reported a surge in unwanted cats and kittens, with 37 homeless felines currently in care of the charity’s centre in Dumbarton.

Staff at the centre in Milton are appealing to anyone thinking of taking on a cat to consider rehoming a rescue pet.

Assistant manager Adam Downs said: “Our centre is full of unwanted, abandoned and neglected cats right now and we are taking in more every day.Some are expectant mothers and others are still nursing their kittens meaning they can’t be rehomed yet and many of our cattery spaces are filled on a medium to long-term basis.

“Others are under veterinary treatment and aren’t fit and healthy enough to leave us just yet so this makes it all the more important for us to find loving owners for the cats who are available and ready to be rehomed.

“We have lots of lovely cats, such as Cricket. She is an extremely timid and scared soul who needs that extra special someone to bring her out of her shell and allow her to grow in confidence. Cricket had a litter of kittens while in our care and they are all flourishing in their forever homes. It’s now time for her to be offered a fresh start and enjoy a life of happiness.

“Unfortunately we are getting a lot of calls from people looking to give up their cats and seem to be receiving less from people interested in taking one on. We really hope people considering bringing a cat into their lives will come along to our centre and meet the many fantastic felines we have just waiting for a second chance.” The centre has also made an appeal for donations of kitten food. Adam said: “Our kittens are going through their food really quickly and we’d be very grateful if locals could lend their support.

“Kitten food is specially designed to help give youngsters the extra nutrients they need to grow and develop. We would greatly appreciate any donations to help our newest residents grow into happy and healthy adults.” For more information call the centre: 03000 999 999.