Little fighter Timmy is in need of a loving home after rescue

RSPCA staff who have seen some of the most shocking cases of cruelty and neglect were lost for words when a sickly cat who had been living in a bin shed came into their care.

Little Timmy was found in Luton on January 11 in an appalling condition with horrendous tumours on both of his ears.

He was rescued by an RSPCA animal collection officer and taken to the charity’s South Bedfordshire branch before being moved to Southridge Animal Centre, in Potters Bar, Hertfordshire.

Centre manager Anna White was shocked by what she saw: “Timmy had obviously been struggling to survive as a stray during the winter and throughout the cold and wet weather.

“He had struggled to find enough food, had no home comforts, and his home - of all places - was a stinking, filthy, damp bin shed surrounded by people’s rubbish.

“He was one of the most pitiful animals we have ever laid eyes on. His ears were obviously hugely uncomfortable and painful.

“He tried to scratch them and shake his head in an attempt to stop the pain, but as soon as I tickled him under the chin he began to purr. He still had a chance.”

Anna added: “Vets diagnosed Timmy with cancerous growths on both ear flaps. These had become infected, were ulcerated and were bleeding.

“The only treatment was to surgically remove the ear pinna on both sides and, to remove the surrounding tissue, on one ear.

“Without veterinary intervention these growths would have continued to grow and caused Timmy excruciating pain.

“Thankfully, Timmy is feeling better with each and every day that passes. He might look like a cat from outer space now, but he is comfortable and happy.”

The RSPCA is now looking for a special person to offer Timmy a forever home.

“Timmy is such a lovely cat who has had a tough life so far,” Anna added. “So he really does deserve to live out his days in the warmth and comfort of a home, with the love and care he desires.”

If you think you could offer Timmy a suitable new home, please contact RSPCA Southridge on 0300 123 0704.