A cat is being treated for horrific burns in Herne Bay after being found by the RSPCA with injuries to his face and paws.

Smelling of smoke, Robbie was taken from Canterbury to the Broadway Veterinary Group.

Investigators think the black and white moggy may have been sheltering in a dumped sofa which was set on fire.

He has lost the tips of his ears and his whiskers have been burned off, but his body has been largely left unscathed, which is why vets believe he survived.

The centre is collecting donations for the cost of Robbie’s care, which is being paid for by the RSPCA’s Canterbury branch.

The bill is expected to be in the region of £4,000.

Vet Sarah Platt said: “We are getting lots of donations but the problem is his treatment takes a lot of time. These treatments are labour-intensive.

“When he came in he was in a shocked state.

“There was no evidence of a chemical being used. It is a bit of a mystery what happened to him.

“Considering how much pain he must have been in, he is very tolerant. He is on four different painkillers.

“He is a really lovely cat and he loves his food, which is good for keeping his strength up. There is a good chance he will have a happy home in the future.”

Donations for Robbie, named after Scottish poet Robert Burns, can be made to the RSCPA Canterbury branch on 01227 719113 or the Broadway Veterinary Group on 01227 375978.