Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary in Edenfield has launched a fundraising campaign to extend its cattery and accommodate more abandoned cats. The initiative, called “Project Purrfect,” aims to renovate the current facility and enhance the living conditions of vulnerable felines awaiting adoption.
Last year, the sanctuary rehomed over 500 cats, but its cattery, which can currently house about 70 cats, is far from sufficient. With a waiting list that stretches into the hundreds, the sanctuary hopes to begin renovations later this year. The expansion will allow for more than 100 cats to be cared for, improving their quality of life while they await their forever homes.
The sanctuary has shared heart-wrenching stories of cats that have come to their care. One such case is Abba, a cat who arrived with a severe eye injury. A visit to the vet revealed that the injury was so bad it required the eye to be removed. Sanctuary Manager Karen Weed said, “Abba would have been in so much pain already, and if she hadn’t come to the sanctuary, she would have been fending for herself in agony.”
Weed emphasized the growing crisis of abandoned cats in the north-west, noting the immense strain on local charities like Bleakholt. “Each year, our waiting list grows as the number of cats needing help far exceeds the available space. The conditions they arrive in are heartbreaking,” she said.
The sanctuary is committed to improving its facilities, but this requires a major financial investment. The initial costs of the renovation are estimated at £300,000. Weed explained, “We need to extend our cattery to help more cats and improve the welfare of those in our care.”
Gemma Atkinson, Bleakholt’s President and Hits Radio star, added, “This is a major renovation, and we know how crucial it is to make this work. Our vet bills are already around £40,000 a month, and this renovation is vital for the future of the sanctuary.”
To support the cause, Bleakholt has launched a fundraising appeal and is encouraging the public to contribute. For those interested, there is also an opportunity to sponsor a new cat pen for £250, which includes having your name on the pen and receiving updates on the cat that occupies it.
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