Urgent calls have been made to rehome an "influx" of cats and kittens in animal shelters.

The Scottish SPCA is experiencing a significant increase in cats at their centres, with 465 more felines needing to be fostered than last year.

Seven-year-old Bella Rose, who is being looked after at the Scottish SPCA's Glasgow centre, is one of hundreds of cats and kittens who are looking for a home as shelters reach full capacity. 

Anna O’Donnell, Scottish SPCA rehoming and fostering lead, said: “We are seeing a rise in cats coming into our care and we’d love anyone thinking about welcoming a cat into their home to consider rescuing an animal.

“We have such a variation of breeds, temperaments and ages that we’re confident we have a cat to suit most families!

“We’d also like to encourage anyone thinking about buying a kitten to consider adopting a young adult cat instead. They are just as playful and fun as a kitten but a little easier to take care of in a lot of ways."

The rise of cats and kittens arriving at shelters is thought to be down to a rise in low-welfare kitten breeding. 

Similar to puppy breeding, the kittens are raised in poor conditions where they are likely to have a number of medical and behavioural problems.

The Scottish SPCA is urging people not to buy kittens from these sellers and to visit its centres and website instead.

Anna added: “Anyone interested in a cat can view and apply for some of the animals we currently have available for rehoming on our website.

“Bella Rose is just one of the cats we have in the care of our Glasgow centre looking for a home.

“She is seven years old and enjoys company once she trusts you. However, despite being good-natured, she will let you know when she wants space.

"For this reason, we feel she would be best suited to either an adult-only home or a home with older children who are used to being around cats.

“Bella Rose requires a home in a quiet area that can offer her outdoor access once she is fully settled and chooses to explore. She is not able to live with any other animals as she wants all the attention to be on her!

“As anyone who has rescued an animal will tell you, these cats will be so grateful for a second chance at a loving home. We’d love to see them all happy and settled with new families as soon as possible.”

Cats can be viewed and applied for HERE.

If anyone is concerned about an animal, they should contact the animal helpline on 03000 999 999.