Blue Cross calling for help with the problem

The numbers of unwanted kittens, puppies and pregnant pets has reached "epidemic levels", according to the animal welfare charity, the Blue Cross, which is calling on the Government to act now to "discourage irresponsible breeders."

The number of pets born at Blue Cross centres across the country after their pregnant mothers were abandoned or given has nearly doubled compared to four years ago, while there has been a 70 per cent increase in kittens in the first half of 2012 alone.

It is believed the increase in numbers is due to owners failing to neuter their pets, which causes them to become 'accidental breeders'.

Kim Hamilton, chief executive of Blue Cross, commented: "For many, pets are part of the family, but there are simply too many pets and not enough these good homes to go round. We must reverse this trend so pets are not disposed of like rubbish."

The Blue Cross has recently launched the Blue Cross Big Neutering Campaign, which aims to make 'neutering the norm', and help wipe out irresponsible breeding, as well as raising awareness of the benefits of neutering.

Ms Hamilton, however, believes action needs to come from the top to help combat the problem: "Owners can do their bit by supporting our campaign but we need Government action to discourage irresponsible breeders who make it easy to get a pet on impulse and just as easy to discard."