A black cat left in a box next to a bin in Crewe has been rescued after being found in a filthy condition.
The cat, named Pumpkin, is believed to be between six and eight years old. She was discovered near Ruskin Community High School on Ruskin Road around midday on October 17.
Covered in faeces and unable to walk properly, Pumpkin was found by a woman who was taking out her rubbish. She noticed the box moving and heard the cat miaowing. Thinking Pumpkin may have broken a leg, the woman brought her inside, cleaned her up, and took her to a vet.
Thankfully, Pumpkin had no broken bones and has since recovered. She is now in the care of the RSPCA Crewe, Nantwich and District Branch.
Mandy Hill, cat rehoming coordinator at the branch, said: “This poor cat was in a dreadful state. While all our cat pens were full, we knew we had to help her. Thanks to a local cattery we work with, we found space where she can be cared for until she finds a forever home.”
The RSPCA is now appealing for information about who may have abandoned Pumpkin. They are urging anyone with knowledge to call their appeal line at 0300 1234 8018.
The charity also highlighted the ongoing issue of black cats being more likely to be abandoned than cats of other colours.
“Black cats make up the majority of the cases we deal with,” Hill explained. “It could be down to superstition or that they’re seen as less photogenic. Either way, it’s a real shame.”
Between 2019 and 2021, more than 2,000 black cats entered the RSPCA’s national centres. On average, it took black cats 30 days to be adopted—almost twice as long as grey tabby cats, which were adopted in around 16 days.
RSPCA cat welfare expert Sam Watson said: “Some people wrongly see black cats as unlucky, but their fur colour doesn’t affect how loving or affectionate they are. We urge potential adopters to look beyond appearances.”
Anyone interested in adopting a cat from the Crewe, Nantwich and District Branch can call 01270 811013 or fill out an adoption form online.
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