AN animal welfare organisation is urging pet owners to have their cats neutered as the number of unwanted kittens threatens to spiral out of control.

The RSPCA has launched a discount offer for people in the Bishop Auckland and the surrounding area to get their cats neutered in a bid to control the number of abandoned litters.

Vanessa Robinson, who fosters cats on behalf of the Darlington branch of the charity, said: "I have been inundated with calls asking me to come and collect kittens. Unless the situation is dealt with now, there will be a problem with unwanted cats.''

She revealed there are already five or six litters of unwanted kittens being fostered by the Darlington branch until they can find homes.

She said: "Neutering also keeps a cat healthy. It cuts out aggression in Toms and the number of female cats dying of cancer can be greatly reduced.''

Anyone who would like to take advantage of the RSPCA's offer or can offer a home to any of the kittens can contact Mrs Robinson on (01325) 377878.