Big surprise on family walk by river

A family were walking along the pathway that runs by the River Great Ouse when they heard a strange scratching noise and went to investigate.

To their surprise they found a small tabby- and- white cat trapped inside a fabric carrier. It appeared to have been thrown into the undergrowth on the riverbank.

Our West Norfolk Cat Centre is located just in front of the river so the family rushed the cat to us. He was taken immediately to be examined and although initially very wary he appeared to be in good condition. He was not neutered or microchipped.

After being checked over we let him rest in a warm and peaceful pen. We posted on social media to find out if he belonged to anyone but sadly no one came forward.

It was decided he would be named River after the River Great Ouse where he was found abandoned. After a few days River really came out of his shell, and it became clear we couldn’t have picked a more fitting name as he loved to play with water! He loved to have supervised play in a litter tray filled with water and floating toys and would happily pass the time having fun in his pen, even exploring his water bowls to see if they could provide any entertainment.

We would describe River as a cheeky chap, always up for a fuss and a huge lover of playing with his toys in water. We’re so glad he was found and brought to us by the kind family out for their walk.

River has now been rehomed and we’ve been told he is really living up to his former name, often seen splashing around with his toys. River has now been given a new name for his new adventure and is now called Bentley.

Do you have a cat whose name tells a story? We’d love to hear about it!

We’re asking for a donation from you to make sure we can help more cats like River. Cats will never know why they’ve been abandoned. They only know the cold, fear and hunger, and that they’re far from home. But their journey doesn’t end there. Our expert team will get to know every abandoned cat so we can find their perfect owner and home and ensure they’re healthy and ready to continue their journey. Your support will provide the food, warmth and expert care they need, until we find them a loving new home.

🐾 A £10 donation could cover the cost of both a flea and worming treatment for an abandoned cat brought into our care.

🐾 A £20 donation could buy kitten milk for one young kitten until they’re ready to be weaned onto cat food.

If you can’t donate at this time, please share River’s appeal to raise awareness and funds.

Any funds raised will go towards our winter appeal, helping the Cats Protection West Norfolk Cat Centre to care for cats this winter.

Cats Protection help more cats than any other organisation and we want to help millions more. We are a dedicated community of passionate employees, volunteers, supporters and partners, working together to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them.

We are the voice of cats in society and we speak up for their protection.

We’re working towards a society where every cat is treated with kindness and respect.

Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Find out more: www.cats.org.uk