Scottish SPCA staff said they were "deeply concerned" about the number of stray cats being found and warned the charity did not have sufficient capacity to cope with the increase.

They said for the first time, there were nearly as many unwanted cats north of the border as dogs.

These cats become unwanted at this time of the year when many people go off on holiday

Scottish SPCA spokeswoman

A spokeswoman for the Edinburgh-based charity said: "The popularity of cats as pets has increased of late, but sadly this has led to a huge surge in unwanted pets.

"In our Glasgow Cat and Dog Home, we have more than double the number of cats than we have space for, 52 cats for 24 spaces - and it is a similar story across the country."

The charity has urged people to "think twice" before buying cats and kittens, particularly as gifts.

The spokeswoman said: "These cats become unwanted at this time of the year when many people go off on holiday.

"Owners don't realise the cost of having their cats looked after when they go away as well as the cost of treatment for them."

The Scottish SPCA has also urged more people to come forward and adopt unwanted cats.