London rescue centre seeks rural homes for pets

Battersea Cats and Dogs Home is calling for rural households to rehome independent cats and selected dog breeds suited to farms and countryside properties across the UK.

The charity is seeking farms, stables, garden centres and other rural properties that can provide space and freedom for animals less suited to traditional domestic living.

Among them are working cats, a term used by Battersea for felines that prefer greater autonomy and outdoor access.

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Misha, who was rehomed last year © Battersea Cats and Dogs Home

One recently rehomed cat is Misha, a three-year-old domestic shorthair that arrived at the rescue centre last year.

After a period of assessment by Battersea’s feline behaviour team, it was determined she would be better placed in a working environment.

She was rehomed to a farm in Surrey. Her new owner said: “Misha has gained so much confidence since she arrived at our farm in November last year.

“She absolutely seems to love life in the barn. She is not afraid of noise anymore and loves brushing up to people for affection and to mark her stamp.

“She quickly became a part of the family, but she’s super independent too, so we understand why she couldn’t cope with domestic life.”

Treatments 

To support adopters, Battersea provides initial vaccinations, flea and worming treatments, neutering, and starter supplies of food and litter.

In return, working cats require a secure and sheltered area to rest, access to vegetation for enrichment, and food and water twice daily.

The charity states that such cats can provide natural pest control and are suited to quieter, rural surroundings.

Dogs need homes too

Battersea is also highlighting that some of its resident dogs are more comfortable in countryside settings.

A spokesman said: “At Battersea, we see a variety of different breeds come through our doors, some of which are best suited to living in quieter areas such as farms or rural homes.

“While not always a specific breed, typically we have found that breeds such as border collies, terriers and different shepherd-type breeds have gone on to live lovely and fulfilled lives on farms and rural homes, as these environments allow them to flourish in their natural environments.”

Prospective adopters are encouraged to email workingcats@battersea.org.uk for more details.