A CHARITY which helps re-home abandoned or unwanted cats has released an urgent appeal for new members and donations.

Cats Protection Basingstoke and District Branch, based in Hatch Lane, Old Basing, is in need of people to join as a member by paying £10 a year to receive a quarterly newsletter and free access to two fairs in the local area.

Hilary Wells, branch co-ordinator, said: “We appreciate times are hard but as we are staffed entirely by volunteers, all membership fees and donations go directly to the welfare of the cats and kittens in our care. We’d really welcome even more people in the local area to become a Cats Protection member to help keep us going.”

She added: “Sadly many cats are still given up or abandoned every day, placing a heavy financial burden on the charity’s services. Cats Protection Basingstoke and District Branch currently has around 20 cats and kittens in its care at any one time in the local area, all being looked after until loving new homes are found.”

New owners adopting from Cats Protection have the peace of mind that their cat will have been examined by a veterinary surgeon, micro-chipped, vaccinated, neutered and, if old enough, will come with four weeks’ free insurance.

Hilary said: “We provide these benefits and treatments so people don’t have to worry about them following adoption, which is a big plus for money-conscious owners. Without financial support from our members and donations, we would have to turn away many unwanted cats.”

A cat being cared for by the charity is 10-year-old Ruby.

Described as “lovely” and “friendly”, she came to the Basingstoke branch as a stray, arriving with her skin in a poor condition. She has been with the charity for a while, and her hair is growing back.

A new owner would just need to keep on top of regular flea treatments, and she may need the odd steroid injection.

Hilary said: “She loves people and she would love a new owner who was at home at least part of the day to keep her company. Can you offer Ruby her forever home?”

For more information on becoming a member or adopting a cat, contact the Basingstoke and District Branch on 0845 177 1364, email or visit the website basingstoke.cats.org.uk.