Rhodes Minnis Cat Sanctuary was founded in 1970 by the late Miss Veronica Huthwaite.

When she passed away in 1996, she left her property in Rhodes Minnis, near Canterbury, to the Trustees, who have continued her work with the support of resident managers.

The Sanctuary now has a dedicated team of seven staff members.

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The charity’s purpose is to take in and care for unwanted and homeless cats and kittens from Kent, London, and occasionally further afield. Some arrive as strays, others have been abandoned or mistreated, and many are brought to us by owners who can no longer care for them.

We also receive cats from other animal charities, the Police, local authorities, and private landlords.

We work closely with Animal Aid and Advice in North London (Registered Charity 1036940), taking cats from them whenever we are able.

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Our aim is to rehome as many cats as possible. Those who cannot be rehomed—whether due to temperament, medical needs, or difficulty settling in a home environment—remain with us for life.

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We are very proud to have a non‑selective intake policy which means we take in any cat regardless of age, breed, or medical condition (subject to available space).

 Wherever they come from, and whatever their background, we welcome them and give them the care they need.

 

​At any given time, we care for around 150 cats, with approximately 60 available for rehoming.

Since 1970, we have found homes for more than 23,000 cats.

In 2022 alone, we took in 259 cats and rehomed 245 cats and kittens, including those born at the Sanctuary.