VIDEO: RSPCA appeals for information after week-old kittens found abandoned in a box in Doncaster

The two males and two females were so young when they were found that their eyes were still closed.

They were discovered by a member of the public in Tickhill Road, Doncaster on Tuesday, 13 April at around 10am.

Thankfully, the member of the public contacted the RSPCA for help and Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) Liz Braidley came out and collected the kittens and brought them to safety.

She said: “These kittens are far too young to be away from their mum at just a week or so old. They were dumped like rubbish and left in a box in an alleyway in Doncaster without any food or water. Thankfully, they were spotted when they were and we were able to care for them. They are now being hand reared by one of our fosterers at the RSPCA Doncaster, Rotherham and District branch and getting the care and attention they need.

“We know that people’s circumstances can change which may mean they can no longer care for their pets but there is never an excuse to abandon an animal this, especially such young kittens who need their mum to survive. It’s very likely that these kittens were an unexpected litter and the owner found they couldn’t cope with them. This is why we urge cat owners to make sure their cats are neutered from four months old to avoid unplanned pregnancies like this from happening.

“During the pandemic, many vets have understandably had to prioritise emergencies only but owners should contact their vet to see if they can help with neutering. If you cannot get an appointment just yet then owners need to be mindful of this and keep their unneutered cats indoors and away from other cats.”

The kittens are now around three weeks old and are doing well. They have been named Leah, Chloe, Justin and Ryder from Australian TV show Home and Away which runs on Channel 5 - a favourite with their fosterer!

If anyone has any information about how these kittens ring 0300 123 8018.

The kittens are too young to be rehomed just yet but their details will be added to the website when they’re ready. Visit: www.rspca.org.uk/findapet

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.