THE RSPCA has launched a research programme across the North-East in an attempt to prevent the UK's cat population spiralling out of control.

Earlier this month, the nation's most popular pet was also dubbed its biggest killer, accounting for millions of birds, small mammals and even insects every year.

But, with no natural predator to worry about either, what many may not know is just how quickly the average cat family can breed.

The surveys - to be carried out in Sunderland and Durham - aim to establish just how many animals there are.

The results will be used to build a computer model of population hot spots before teams are sent in to promote responsible methods of control, such as neutering.

RSPCA regional manager for Yorkshire and the North-East, Alan Wolinski said: "This is the first study into a long-term control of cats and an approach that is urgently needed. Although random cat neutering programmes have helped, they are not enough to stop a rapid increase in cat numbers, and a concerted targeted effort is required to make an impact."

Meanwhile, the charity continues to be horrified by cases of cruelty.

In Great Ayton, in Cleveland, a man threatened to drown a litter of kittens if a rescue centre refused to take them off his hands immediately.

However, in 1999, there were already 46,786 cats in 50 RSPCA refuge centres, with many more on the waiting lists.