AN animal sanctuary near Chard is appealing for help from members of the local community after a surge of kittens being dumped.

Ferne Animal Sanctuary has taken more than 20 kittens into care over the past month, meaning that the charity's resources are being stretched to the limit.

It is believed that the huge spike of abandoned kittens is down to the fact that it is breeding season.

Both catteries at the sanctuary are now full, meaning that staff have been forced to keep some of the kittens in the animal surgery area.

The sanctuary also took care of one heavily pregnant cat which had been abandoned, just days before she gave birth to a litter.

The situation has been described as "critical" by the sanctuary, and they are now issuing an urgent appeal for people to donate money or items which can be used to look after the kittens.

People who are able to re-home the cats or kittens are also urgently being sought.

Tara Nirula, rehoming manager is appealing to anyone considering adopting a feline into their family.

She said: "We are urgently looking for loving homes with people who can give these kittens a second chance in life.

"The owners must have patience and commitment but most of all, lots of love to give."

If you are unable to adopt a kitten from Ferne but you would like to help, you can donate towards their Special Care Cat Unit appeal.

Steph Sterndale-Bennett, Fundraising Manager, said: "We are currently undertaking a 12-month appeal for funds to help us build a special care unit which will enable us to accommodate more cats and kittens in need of extra TLC in the years to come.

"This is becoming increasingly important as we are finding ourselves at maximum capacity more and more frequently."

The Special Care Cat Unit will cost £195,000 to build and will complement the top class care that Ferne Animal Sanctuary provides to the animals 365 days of the year.

To donate please visit the ‘Donate Now’ page of their website: www.fereneanimalsanctuary.org

Anyone wishing to adopt kittens is asked to call the Sanctuary on 01460 65214 to discuss suitability and to arrange a viewing appointment.

A pre-home check will be conducted before any animals are released into the adopter’s care.