by Anna Whiteawhite@thekmgroup.co.uk

A beloved cat was left bloodied and injured after it was the victim of a cruel attack.

Jack, a black and white pet, had been out for about four hours when he returned home, in Northumberland Avenue, Shepway, with a split lip, a broken tail, cuts and a puncture wound.

His owner Anna Stopes was horrified when he timidly slumped into the kitchen, choking and bleeding, at about 11am last Thursday.

The 21-year-old initially thought Jack had been hit by a car but experts at nearby Mote Park Veterinary Surgery confirmed he had been attacked by a person.

The vet told Miss Stopes a mark on the animal resembled a wound caused by a high heeled shoe.

The cat also suffered damage to its tooth, cuts on its legs and face, and damaged claws. Vets believe the paw injuries may have happened as Jack clawed to get away.

Miss Stopes, who lives with her mum and 19-year-old brother Stephen, said: “I just don’t understand why someone would do such an awful thing to an animal.

"I just screamed when I saw the state Jack was in. He is so lovely and affectionate, so to see him in so much pain was horrible.

"I hope the person who did this to my poor Jack is found gets what they deserve for being so cruel.”

Police officers have confirmed it is thought the pet was attacked by a person. An investigation has been launched.

Jack has undergone surgery and treatment, at a cost of £160.

Miss Stopes, who recently became unemployed, relied on the generosity of family and friends to pay the medical costs.

Anyone with information is asked to call officers on 101.