Sheffield cats for adoption: Four kittens thrown from car by couple in Herdings, says RSPCA

Four 14-week-old kittens that were thrown from a car into a Sheffield woodland by a couple who then fled the scene are now available for adoption from the RSPCA.

The incident was witnessed by a shocked council worker who then rushed to the aid of the tiny and traumatised kittens, who were abandoned in a box, near the entrance to Herdings Park Woods in Herdings.

He took the kittens into the care of the RSPCA Sheffield Animal Centre, in Attercliffe, where they are now recovering from their ordeal.

An investigation has been launched to find the couple responsible for the incident which happened around 11.30am on Thursday, February 15.

Hayley Crookes, animal care assistant at the branch, said: “A council worker was parked in a layby when he saw a vehicle drive to the entrance of the park and a couple got out and threw a box into the woods before they sped away.

“He was worried about what was inside the box so rushed to retrieve it and found the scared kittens inside so brought them into our care.

“He was quite shocked about what he had seen and as an animal lover was so focussed on getting help he didn’t take note of the make and model of the car but said it was a couple in their forties who were responsible.

“We are now appealing to find the people responsible as we are worried they may have other animals in their care which need help and we don’t want another horrific situation like this.”

The three boys and one girl - who have been named with a cheese theme as Emmental (girl), Gouda, Gorgonzola and Mozzarella by staff - have done well in charity’s care and will now be available for adoption and you can find out more by visiting the Sheffield branch website here.

The RSPCA has revealed that incidents of animals being abandoned are at a three-year high. In 2023, the RSPCA’s emergency line received 20,999 reports. This was higher than in 2022 (19,645), 2021 (17,179) and 2020 (16,118).

Anyone with information about this incident should call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.

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This year the RSPCA celebrates its 200th birthday. To mark this special anniversary the animal welfare charity wants to inspire one million people to join their movement to improve animals' lives. To find out how you can join visit www.rspca.org.uk/200.