Flood kitten Storm still without his family

Yorkshire Cat Rescue took in the little black kitten, which they named Storm, after he was found bruised and shocked at the height of the region’s flooding.

He was not microchipped, and despite a popular social media appeal, his owners have not been traced and the charity fear he will never be reunited.

Centre manager Sam Davies said: “We can only guess that Storm either escaped or was let out while Hebden Bridge was flooded, and got lost in the terrible conditions.

“Storm is still a little timid – most likely because of what he has gone through – and he still sleeps a lot which is rare for a kitten this age. He is also a clingy and affectionate little soul, and I’m certain he misses his family. We suspect they miss him too but sadly he isn’t microchipped and our appeal has so far failed to reach them.”

When particularly friendly cats are found wandering the streets and are brought to Yorkshire Cat Rescue, the charity usually waits two weeks before starting to find them a new home in case the owner comes forward.

Despite a Facebook appeal being shared 2,500 times within a matter of hours, no owners have come forward. Had he been microchipped, his owners could have been found straight away. The charity is now urging all pet owners to get their animals microchipped.

Ms Davies added: “The appeal was extremely popular and we were hoping that Storm’s owners would get in touch. Unfortunately, it was a call that never came and we have now decided that it is time for Storm to get a new home. He even has a few offers already.

“Unfortunately, despite large scale awareness campaigns, many cats still aren’t microchipped. That tiny little chip is their ticket home. It guarantees owners that should their pet ever be found lost or injured, they will be informed as soon as possible.

“Storm won’t be reunited with his family but his story will have a happy ending. His family, however, might be worried about what happened to him forever.”