Yorkshire Cat Rescue is hoping to make December a little tastier for its temporary residents by launching an appeal for turkey-flavoured wet food.

The charity has so far taken in more than 961 cats this year, and expects to reach 1,000 for the first time ever. As a result, stocks of wet food have run out. 

Although very practical, dry cat food lacks the natural high water content which a cat naturally needs. Typically, wet food also contains more quality protein which cats and kittens need to thrive and recover from illness.

Sara Atkinson, founder of Yorkshire Cat Rescue says: "Many of our cats have had a hard time, and some are recovering from illness and injury. They desperately need a good quality diet and that includes a nice fresh bowl of wet food each day. Sadly, we are running out, just as everyone else is preparing to enjoy the festive season.

"Each year, it is our most sincere wish to let our cats and kittens experience the joy of Christmas, and that absolutely includes some nice tasty Turkey. With a record number of cats at the centre and in foster care, we need more wet food than ever before. It would be really sad if the Christmas menu was a dry experience this year - especially for the cats that have been through more hardship than we would ever wish for our pets."

The charity says the most popular brands for the most vulnerable and fussy cats are Sheba, Applaws and Thrive – all with chicken or turkey.

Donations can be made to its charity shops on 78-80 Cavendish St, Keighley and 38 Southgate, Halifax; and to the rehoming centre at Lower Pierce Close, Cross Roads, Keighley BD22 9AQ.