Two rabbits found in a neglected state in Maidstone yesterday were taken to a vet by RSPCA inspectors.

The two were found dumped in a garden in Plains Avenue. Both had badly matted fur around their feet and were filthy around their rears.

The brown, smaller rabbit also had an abscess under its chin. They have both been taken to a vet where they are receiving treatment.

Animal collection officer Brian Milligan said: “We urge anyone with information about who these rabbits belonged to and how they came to be dumped like this to contact us on 0300 123 8018.

“Sadly we see these kind of problems far too often. Rabbits need and deserve a great deal of care but many owners do not realise this when they take them on - meaning they end up being forgotten about and neglected in cages.”

The RSPCA has taken in so many of the animals recently that it had to put some 80 in the south of England in private boarding as its centres did not have room to house them.

"All these poor rabbits are in desperate need of a loving home" - Abigail Moon

It took in 1,344 and rehomed 783 last year, 50 of which came from the same household.

RSPCA rehoming operations manager Abigail Moon said: “All these poor rabbits are in desperate need of a loving home.

“We aren’t sure why they are overlooked as they are very popular pets but people don’t realise you can adopt them from charities and so buy from pet shops.

“Animals rescued by the RSPCA make brilliant pets and we will microchip and neuter any rabbit before rehoming it."

The RSPCA has a mixture of established pairs and animals looking for a companion.