A terrified kitten has been rescued by the RSPCA after being thrown over a barbed wire fence while trapped inside a zipped-up rucksack near Clapham Junction train station.
The female tortoiseshell kitten was discovered by a member of the public on Sunday (7 September), who saw the white bubble-style bag being thrown over the fence into Tours Passage, close to a busy train station. The finder took the kitten home and alerted the RSPCA.
Deputy Chief Inspector Leanna Hone, who is leading the investigation, said: “This is an appalling way to treat a living animal. This kitten must have been terrified – trapped inside a bag and flung over a fence near a busy station.
“If she hadn’t been found in time the outcome could have been tragic. We are checking CCTV footage in the area, and urge anyone with information to come forward.”
The kitten, believed to be around 12 weeks old, is not microchipped. She is currently in RSPCA care and has been named Mavis.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference number 01627728.
The RSPCA is highlighting this case to urge pet owners to neuter and microchip their cats. Neutering prevents unwanted litters and often leads to healthier, happier cats.
Female cats can become pregnant from just four months old, with the potential to produce up to 18 kittens per year. The RSPCA rescues more than 20,000 cats annually, with peak intake between May and September.
“Abandoning animals is never the answer – no matter how difficult things are”, Leanna added. “We understand the cost of living crisis is affecting many, and we offer help and advice to struggling pet owners.”
When an animal is in need, the quicker they get help the better.
The RSPCA advises people who find a small pet who has been abandoned to take them directly to a local vet or rescue centre. These teams can then call in the expertise of RSPCA teams if there’s evidence that the animal has been neglected or abused. There’s more information on how to safely handle and transport an animal on the RSPCA website.
The RSPCA also offers advice and support to pet-owners who may be struggling to look after their pets at a time of rising prices. A dedicated cost of living hub on the RSPCA website offers tips on how to save money, how to reduce vets’ bills and how to find a pet food bank.
