THE number of abandoned and stray cats in Buckinghamshire has gone up for the fourth year running.

South Bucks RSPCA currently has 800 unwanted cats ready to find new homes for – but many are unable to be re-homed because people cannot afford to take them in.

Joan Johnson of the RSPCA said there were many other reasons why the number of animals picked up by its officers had gone up from 2,020 in 2006 to 2,850 last year.

These include failing to microchip and neuter pets and cats being left to fend for themselves when their owners are on holiday.

But Mrs Johnson said the major reason was the recession.

She said: “Vet bills are on the increase – like everybody else, they need to put their fees up. Some have got at least three-figure bills.

“Everybody's full up – any charity you mention is overflowing.

“It costs £20 or more to get a microchip put in and up to £65 to have a cat spayed. Quite often people have a cat but don't bother to have it neutered.”

She added: “I think people are too busy working, that's half the trouble. Women go out to work and there's nobody at home now.

“I know they say cats can look after themselves but babies still need someone round them to look after them while they are young.”

Last year the charity found homes for 500 cats.

One of the ways animals have been re-homed is from people fostering the pets and looking after them on a temporary basis.

Mrs Johnson said: “If they can't afford to keep a cat, it's ideal if they foster it.

“We always need more fosters. We supply the food and litter for anyone who will foster.”

The number of felines taken in by the RSPCA has increased in each of the last three years - and another surge is expected this month.

The RSPCA say failing to get cats neutered leads to owners being left with unwanted litters of kittens – which are then given up for re-homing, or in some cases simply dumped.

Without microchips, cats can easily get lost and end up weeks later as strays in poor condition as there is often no way of knowing where the animal has come from.

Anyone interested in adopting or fostering a cat can contact the RSPCA on 01494 527118, or for more information go to www.rspca.org.uk.