AN animal charity is calling on residents to adopt the purrfect friend during National Pet Month this April.

The Cats Protection’s Warrington adoption centre in Padgate is urging people to adopt a feline friend throughout the month and have the stats to back up claims pets have health and social benefits for owners.

Anna Saillet, from the Warrington centre, added: "One study involving over 600 respondents showed that 87 per cent of people who owned a cat felt it had a positive impact on their wellbeing, while 76 percent said they could cope with everyday life much better thanks to the company of their feline friends.

“National Pet Month is a good time for people to stop and think about how a pet could enhance their lives.

"Those choosing a cat will be thoroughly rewarded as cats offer love and companionship."

One special cat at the Padgate site in need of a new home is Molly-Moo.

Staff say you would never guess she is 11-years-old and would love to go to an adult-only home and be able to go outside.

She is not used to busy roads but adores having a knee to sit on and being given attention.

To adopt a cat, call 03000 12 06 12.