NEW homes for old cats are desperately needed following a spike in abandoned pets in Darlington.

Families across Darlington have been urged to consider adopting a new member as rescue organisations struggle to cope with high levels of demand.

Sadberge Kennels and Cattery has appealed for help in rehoming the scores of cats handed over to them in recent months.

Staff say demand has been so great that they are running out of room and in danger of being unable to help any new cats that arrive on their doorstep.

Sophie Moran said: “We’ve got a waiting list for cats coming to us and until it goes down, we can’t take any more, meaning people might not have anywhere to take cats to.

“There aren’t many organisations in the area that do cat rehoming and we’ve ended up with quite a few.

“We’ve got a lot of elderly cats that we’d love to find homes for but people are sometimes reluctant to take them on.

“They have a lot to offer, they’re often quieter and more of a lap cat rather than one that will run around the house.

“Older cats are probably more used to having children around and they could also be nice for older people.

“They have a lot of life left in them but their age tends to put people off.”

Potential adopters can be from any background but will be subject to a house check.

Staff promise to work to match the right cat to the right person.

Anyone interested in adopting a cat can contact Sadberge Kennels and Cattery on 01325-332433.