Cats are treasured family pets but, unfortunately, some are left abandoned, and today we’re looking back at the charities that care for them.


Cats Protection is the UK’s largest feline welfare charity. In nearly 100 years, it has rehomed over two million cats and kittens and championed the rights of cats. 

Four-year-old Blue at Oak Tree Animals' CharityFour-year-old Blue at Oak Tree Animals' Charity (Image: Newsquest)
During the 1920s, these were not seen as the companions of today – instead of much-loved pets, they were considered as nothing more than pests. Concern was expressed at the ignorance of many people regarding the needs of the domestic cat. 

Kittens at Eden Animal Rescue needing a homeKittens at Eden Animal Rescue needing a home (Image: Newsquest)
In an attempt to raise the status of cats, a group of like minded people gathered at Caxton Hall in London in 1927 to form the Cats Protection League.

Ginge needed a new home after its owner diedGinge needed a new home after its owner died (Image: Newsquest)
Surviving war and recession and defying the odds to help as many cats as possible, the charity’s aim remains the same as it did then.

Vicky Armstrong and her son Oakla buy Christmas presents for their cat at Whitehaven market (Image: Newsquest)
Locally, Eden Animal Rescue has been caring for cats and other animals since 1995 and prides itself on never putting a healthy animal to sleep.

Oak Tree Animals' Charity was appealing for wool for blankets in 2018Oak Tree Animals' Charity was appealing for wool for blankets in 2018 (Image: Newsquest)
Based at Moorlands Head Farm, in Newbiggin, it has shops in Penrith and Kirkby Stephen.
Its small team of staff and volunteers work tirelessly to rescue and rehome cats, dogs and small animals, relying on community support to fund its work.

Shadow was at Oak Tree Animals' Charity needing a home in 2018

Pictures show some of the cats it has cared for over the years, with our main image featuring staff member Alison Reed with Sadie in 2016. Others needing homes included Ginge and some adorable kittens.

Skye, a five-year-old Seal Point Siamese, and Bruno, a two-year-old grey Siamese cross needed homesSkye, a five-year-old Seal Point Siamese, and Bruno, a two-year-old grey Siamese cross needed homes (Image: Newsquest)
Oak Tree Animals’ Charity, based at Oak Tree Farm in Carlisle, provides a safe place for cats, dogs and equines in their time of need. It looks to rehome animals and works to support long-term healthy relationships between animals and their owners in the community.

Rosie, a beautiful mature cat of around 15, was seeking new ownersRosie, a beautiful mature cat of around 15, was seeking new owners (Image: Newsquest)
Among the cats pictured looking for new owners are Blue, Syke, Bruno, Shadow and Rosie.