Dozens of cats taken from house

The animals were all said to be in good condition

More than 40 cats were discovered in a house on Tyneside after the owner called in the RSPCA because she was unable to cope.

Inspectors went to the house in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, on Tuesday.

The cats, which were of all ages and in good condition, were taken to kennels where they will have health checks. It is hoped they can be re-homed.

The RSPCA said it highlighted the importance of having pets neutered to prevent unwanted animals.

RSCPA chief inspector Michelle Charlton said they had collected about 34 cats from the house on Tuesday morning and would be going back to pick up more later.

Unwanted animals

She said: "The owner contacted us and said that she had a few too many cats and could we come and help.

"They appear to be in quite good condition and the house was fairly clean and tidy."

The animals have been taken to a kennels in Ponteland, Northumberland, where they will be checked by a vet before being re-homed.

Ms Charlton said they had recently taken 27 cats away from another house.

RSPCA animal welfare manager for the North Peter Bolton said: "Neutering makes sense and is a major part of responsible pet ownership."

It says leaving pets unneutered leads to a large number of unwanted animals.

The charity said it needs to set up its own kennels in the area and is appealing to fundraisers to help it do that.