Founded in 1970 by the late Miss Veronica Huthwaite, Rhodes Minnis Cat Sanctuary has spent more than five decades providing safety, care, and compassion to unwanted and homeless cats.

 

When Miss Huthwaite 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 dedicated resident managers.

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Today, the Sanctuary is run by a committed team of seven staff members who care for around 150 cats at any given time, with approximately 60 available for rehoming.

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We take in cats from across Kent, London, and sometimes further afield. Some arrive as strays, others have been abandoned or mistreated, and many come from owners who can no longer care for them. We also receive cats from other animal charities, the Police, local authorities, private landlords, and we work closely with Animal Aid and Advice in North London whenever space allows.

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Our aim is always 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 proud to operate a non‑selective intake policy, meaning we accept any cat regardless of age, breed, or medical condition (subject to available space). Wherever they come from, and whatever their background, every cat is welcomed and given the care they need.

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Since 1970, we have found loving homes for more than 23,000 cats. In 2022 alone, we took in 259 cats and rehomed 245, including kittens born at the Sanctuary.