Hector’s House Cat Rescue has issued an urgent warning after it says a person impersonated a volunteer or employee of the charity in an attempt to remove and rehome cats.
Hector’s House Cat Rescue, which is based in Torbay and supports cats across Devon, said it had become aware of an individual claiming to represent the charity and taking cats from a person in a difficult situation.
The rescue is urging cat owners to be vigilant and says genuine volunteers and staff can be identified by their official clothing and equipment.
In a statement, Hector’s House said: “All volunteers and employees wear HH t-shirts/hoodies, a lanyard with an HH ribbon, only use specific MDC wire carriers and use paperwork with our logo.”
The charity stressed that it would never remove cats from individuals without prior written agreement through its official email address.
“If ever in doubt, please email hectorshousequeries@gmail.com marking it urgent, with a photo of the person if possible,” the rescue said.
Hector’s House added that it is aware of the person involved and intends to pass information to the police.
The charity, which works to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome cats in need across Devon and beyond, said the welfare of cats remains its priority, but warned that some people may take advantage of urgent situations involving animals.
The rescue reminded members of the public that cats be transferred through trusted channels and said the organisations it works with include veterinary practices, recognised members of the Association of Dogs & Cats Homes, such as the RSPCA, and the police.
Hector’s House advised anyone needing help with a cat to contact the charity directly before handing an animal over to a third party.
The charity’s message to owners is simple: be cautious, check identities, and make sure any arrangements are confirmed through official channels before allowing anyone to take a cat.
“We never take cats from individuals without prior written agreement via email, using the above email address,” the rescue said.
The charity said it has identified the person involved and will be forwarding information to the police.
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