An animal charity is investigating after a faeces-covered cat with a ruptured eye was found in an alleyway.

A member of the public discovered the long-haired black and white feline near Halling High Street on Sunday, February 25.

The cat – now called Freya by RSPCA staff – was covered in faeces and her fur was extremely matted. She was also in desperate need of veterinary attention for her eye.

Freya isn’t microchipped and was taken to the RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre where she is now getting treatment.

RSPCA Inspector Kirsten Omerod is looking into how the cat came to be abandoned in this state.

She said: “This poor cat was clearly really struggling – she was covered in excrement, her fur was incredibly matted and her eye was ruptured and was closed and oozing which must have been incredibly painful.

“Despite her ordeal, she’s an incredibly friendly cat so must have had an owner previously which is why we think she could have been abandoned.

“She was very lucky to have been spotted by a kind member of the public who took her to our closest animal centre.

“Once there, Freya had to have her fur shaved to get rid of the thick mats and she also had to have her right eye removed.

“We’re unsure of the cause of Freya’s eye injury but we aren’t ruling out deliberate cruelty at this stage – but we need the public to help us by coming forward with any information they have.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact them on the inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

Freya, named after the warrior princess, is doing well and is continuing on antibiotics and pain relief.

She won’t be available for rehoming for some time while she recovers from her operation.

Sarah Clarkson from RSPCA Leybourne added: “Freya loves people despite the trauma she’s had – she just loves to give people head bumps and love. All the staff and volunteers have fallen in love with her.

“She's doing well but she’s still got a lot of recovering to do so we ask that people do not contact the centre enquiring about adoption as she will not be available for rehoming for some time.

“Those interested should please keep an eye on our website, where there’s also lots of other amazing rescue pets looking for forever homes.”