A RESCUED cat has become a surrogate mum to two unloved kittens - as well as five of her own.

Pregnant Arwen arrived at RSPCA Danaher Animal Home, in Wethersfield, in May where she gave birth to five healthy kittens of her own on May 27.

However, the motherly moggy soon took it upon herself to help nurse another two cats, whose mother fell ill at the Harold and Havering branch.

Deborah Satchell, animal home manager, said: “The two two-day-old kittens had to be taken away from their mum as she was too poorly to look after them.

“Luckily, we managed to place them with Arwen who accepted them and started nursing her extended litter.”

The seven kittens have all been named after Gods and Goddesses. Aphrodite, Clio, Venus, Ra, Horus, Hades, and Selene are now happily being looked after by legendary mum Arwen.

Deborah said: “Arwen has proven to be very maternal and all seven kittens are doing well now. We have helped by topping them up with milk but mum Arwen has done extremely well.”

When the kittens are old enough they will be rehomed.

Hundreds of cats at RSPCA centre are waiting to find their forever homes, and summer is the busiest time for the charity.

Alice Potter, cat welfare expert, said: “Arwen has proven to be very maternal and all seven kittens are doing well now. We have helped by topping them up with milk but mum Arwen has done extremely well.”

Visit www.rspca.org.uk.