Karmactive Staff
26 Cats Found in Boxes in Birmingham Alley: RSPCA Appeal
A man out walking in Birmingham found 26 cats and kittens in plastic boxes and carriers in an alley. If you have information, the RSPCA wants to hear from you.
The animals were found beside discarded rubbish in an alleyway on Hawthorn Road on September 30, according to reporting on the RSPCA appeal. The RSPCA attended and took the cats into its care. An animal rescue officer described some of the cats as struggling to breathe. The RSPCA has appealed for information from the public.
Reporting says some cats were shut in sealed plastic boxes. Claims that specific boxes were taped shut, had no air holes, or that the animals were dehydrated have not been confirmed by an official RSPCA statement in the material reviewed. Deliberately sealing animals in airtight containers could bring a charge under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, with a potential maximum of five years in prison under the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act 2021. That is a potential maximum, not an indication that a charge or conviction will follow.
Where were the 26 cats found?
A local resident found them in an alleyway on Hawthorn Road in Birmingham on September 30. The RSPCA took them into its care.
Why this is happening
UK shelters face pressure from rising vet and food costs, but that is general context, not an established cause of this case. Owners who are struggling can look for subsidised vet charities and pet food banks before giving up a pet.
What to watch
The RSPCA has not announced suspects or court dates in the material reviewed. Check back for updates.
