A TOWN centre animal charity is urging cat owners to have their male and female cats neutered as soon as possible as 'kitten season' is well under way.

Staff at Warrington Animal Welfare say they have already got six litters to foster and therefore 'cannot stress strongly enough how important' it is for pet owners to book their cats into the vets for the procedure.

A spokesman added: "Some facts that people may not know include cats can get pregnant during their first heat cycle, but this is not advisable as a four-month old cat is not yet fully grown/mature, and complications for the mother and the kittens are more likely.

"They can also get pregnant with a new litter anywhere from 48 hours to two weeks after giving birth and most cats killed by cars are un-neutered males."

Owners on a low income or benefits can call the charity on 748637 or 748638, send them a message via their Facebook page or email info@warringtonanimalwelfare.org.uk.