Fabulous felines with a combined age of nearly 80 years are hoping to have their paws up in new retirement homes before Christmas.

Six golden oldies are currently being cared for at three RSPCA animal centres in Colwyn Bay, Swansea and Newport while they wait to be adopted. Sadly, national figures show that cats in their twilight years take nearly three times as long to rehome, as people steer towards kittens and younger animals.  

RSPCA Cymru hopes that prospective owners will look beyond the cats’ ages and consider welcoming a more mature moggie into their home this November.  
  
Dr Sam Gaines, head of the companion animals team at the RSPCA, said: “Every rescue animal is worthy of a home, but in some cases even more so for senior pets as it can be very upsetting for them to suddenly have a change in routine after so many years.
 
“It seems the main worries people have is the financial investment, time and care, when in fact there are huge positives to adopting an older cat; they are just as loving and playful and it can also be easier to judge their personalities, which allows you to identify if they are a fit for your home and family.

“It’s heartbreaking to see an older animal spend their twilight years in a rescue centre. Plenty of pets are young at heart and we’d encourage anyone looking to adopt a cat to consider giving an older one a second chance.”

The average lifespan of a cat is about 14-years-old but some can live for much longer, even into their 20s. Last year the RSPCA rehomed 17,868 felines - which is 53 a day or two every hour - including 759 in Wales.

One of the senior cats include 10 year old Count Dracula whose long black fur is almost as dazzling as his personality.

A little timid at first, Dracula is looking for a family who can offer him a quieter retirement home to help build up his confidence. This sweet natured boy could live with secondary-school age children, but would prefer to be the only pet in the house. 

Once Dracula has his paws on the ground, the lovely boy shows how sweet natured he really is and will only show his fangs when he is hungry!

If your home isn't spooky enough and feel you can offer Dracula the loving home he deserves, please complete a Perfect Match form via the link at the bottom of this page and email to brynymaen@rspca.org.uk.

Seven reasons to adopt a senior cat.

1: Housing etiquette: Many older and mature cats will already be familiar with how to use a litter tray. 

2: First time pet: In many cases older cats are used to a home environment and may settle more quickly. 

3. Great companions: Older cats tend to be less active and will want to sleep more, which can be beneficial for elderly people looking for companionship from an animal. 

4. Just as deserving: Some people think older cats end up in rescue because of behavioural issues. However in most cases, it isn’t their fault but more likely a change of circumstance at home e.g marital breakdown, change in job or death of their owner. 

5. Supporting us: By adopting an older animal you will be helping both them and us. Generally  kittens and younger cats are fairly easy to rehome, whereas older animals can often find themselves in RSPCA care for months, or even longer, before they are adopted.

6: Good match: We assess every cat that comes into our care to understand their personality and help find the best match for you as an adopter.

7. Peace of mind: All RSPCA animals, including senior pets, have a vet check, so we are able to brief you on any medical conditions the cat may have so you’re aware of the care that might be required right from the start.