Kittens found abandoned on Birmingham bus
National Express West Midlands and 'Team Cat Rescue' are appealing for cat lovers to help house five kittens found abandoned on a Birmingham bus.
Bus Inspectors Kate Potter and Lewis Jeynes found the kittens as they boarded a 28 service in Great Barr - they were left in a box on the back seat. Kate said: "We were carrying out a routine check on the bus when I found a box on the back seat. I thought it was rubbish so I picked it up and was shocked to hear noises from inside. When I opened the lid I saw ten little eyes looking up at me." "The kittens were very tired and distressed, but thankfully they looked in reasonable health. My sister volunteers for a local cat charity so I called her straight away. I found it hard to believe someone could abandon the poor things, they looked so defenceless."
The kittens were collected by Team Cat Rescue, a charity with adoption centres based throughout North Birmingham. They are currently being fostered by a family in Sutton Coldfield, until they are old enough to be adopted. Lewis Jeynes said: "The kittens were far too young to be separated from their mother and some had to be hand reared.
They look so much happier than when they arrived, but they are still traumatised by what happened. I’m actually adopting one myself and have called him Conan." National Express is examining CCTV from the bus to try and identify the culprits. Lynne Buffrey, Coordinator for Team Cat Rescue, said: "We're so grateful these kittens were found in time to save their lives and hopefully we’ll find permanent homes for them shortly. It’s vital that cat owners take responsibility for newting their animals to prevent unwanted kittens. If you’re finding it difficult to care for your cat please contact ourselves or a cat charity such as the PDSA or Cat Protection who can assist with the cost of neutering."
If you're interested in adopting a kitten or cat from 'Team Cat Rescue' please contact them on 0121 373 4596: Home assessments must be carried out before any animal can be adopted.
Published 29th July 2010