A successful animal charity which has rescued around 2,000 cats and kittens could fold in weeks due to lack of cash, its devastated volunteers have admitted.

Kats Cradle, which is based in Parsons Croft, Coven, South Staffordshire, has helped to save the lives of more than 300 animals every year since the charity was launched back in 2002. But under-pressure volunteers have revealed it could close before Christmas because it cannot afford to cover soaring veterinary bills and fuel costs.

The charity has already amassed a £2,500 vets bill this year and still has to pay a food bill of more than £1,000.

Kats Cradle was set up by qualified veterinary nurse Debbie Brookes to rescue stray cats and kittens, as well as paying for veterinary treatment.

A team of 11 foster carers support the charity by looking after the dozens of kittens taken into care while they find new homes.

But 38-year-old Debbie, who has dedicated the past six years to rescuing cats, said the charity could not continue past Christmas unless more cash was found.

“I think a lot of people believe we are given money to help with the running of the charity but we rely completely on donations and fundraising events,” she said.

“It has just about kept us ticking over but it can’t go on like this.

“We really need money to carry on and I have said it will have to close at Christmas if more money doesn’t come in because we just can’t afford it.

“I have dedicated so much to this charity and some days I will work from 8am right through to 2am the next morning. At the moment it’s so bad it’s making me ill.

“I am eternally grateful for all of the people who donate to us.

“What we need is a full-time sponsor who can guarantee money coming in regularly to make sure it can continue.”

Alyson Coughan, from Kidderminster, who has fostered cats for the charity for the past two years, said she would hate to see the charity closed.

Anyone who thinks they can help keep the charity running should call Debbie on 01902 791794.