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The RSPCA has reported a dramatic increase in the number of cats being abandoned.
The number of abandonments reported to the RSPCA was 10,610 in 2010, a 28% increase on the number reported in 2009 (8,310), and a 40% increase on the number in 2008 (7,609).
The charity received 205 reports of cats being shot in 2010, more or less the same as the year before. However, the charity says anecdotal reports suggest the number of cats being attacked (including being set upon by dogs or thrown from buildings) is increasing.
RSPCA chief veterinary officer, Alastair Macmillan, said: "The news of massive rises in abandonments and other attacks is alarming and shows a frightening trend in cat abuse and neglect. We don't know why we are seeing such increases and hope that people are not starting to see cats as worthless things which can be targeted with weapons or just dumped when people don't want to care for them anymore".
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is this report the prelude to another fundraising exercise? Yes some parts of the RSPCA do a fantastic job but in fairness so do a lot of other charities - but with a lot fewer resources. Watching tv tonight the 'One Show' put the RSPCA funds at a 100 million pounds - now I dont know if that is true or not, if it isnt the RSPCA needs to put the record straight. If it is then I am sorry but this charity is a lot wealthier than most!