Two tiny kittens have been saved after being dumped in a taped-up cat carrier and left out in the rain.
The 10-week-old moggies were spotted by a quick-thinking shopkeeper, who saw someone abandoning the carrier outside their shop.
When the person didn’t come back, the kind-hearted worker rushed to rescue them, bringing the box inside and giving the frightened felines food, water, and a litter tray before calling the RSPCA.
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Now the animal charity is appealing for information about who left the kittens in Kings Heath, Birmingham, as reported by Need To Know.
Animal Rescue Officer Sarah Guest said: “The kittens had mild conjunctivitis but were otherwise healthy.
“Thankfully, the shopkeeper acted quickly to bring them inside before they became too cold or distressed.
“He told me he’d seen someone leave the carrier outside but they didn’t come back.
“Abandoning defenceless animals like these kittens is never the answer.
“We understand the cost-of-living crisis is affecting many people and we’re here to offer advice and support to anyone struggling with their pets.”
The adorable pair – now named Max and Stevie – are being cared for at the RSPCA Shropshire Branch and will soon be looking for new homes if no owner comes forward.
Anyone with information is urged to call the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference number 01660920.
Dr Samantha Gaines, Head of Companion Animals at the RSPCA, said: “Sadly, last year, incidents of animal abandonment being reported to the RSPCA reached a five-year high.
“We know it’s a really tough time for pet owners – and the cost of living crisis has made things exceptionally challenging, with our Animal Kindness Index revealing that 74% of owners think caring for their pet is more expensive than a year ago.
“But dumping an animal is never, ever the answer.
“Fortunately, there is hope.
“Our frontline rescuers are doing all they can to help animals experiencing the very worst cruelty and neglect – including those who have tragically been left to fend for themselves; while our incredible animal centres are finding new homes for countless rescued animals each year.
“But we need people’s support to keep our work going.
“That’s why we’ve launched The Big Give Back to Animals this winter, to raise vital funds for our frontline teams, and to ensure we can keep being there for the animals who give us so much, and ask for so little in return.”
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