Three flea-ridden cats have been rescued after being found dumped in a taped-up cardboard box.

The felines were found behind some bins by a passer-by walking along Skinner Street in Gillingham.

They were found in a box – used to store crisp packets – along with three empty food bowls on March 14.

The member of the public alerted the RSPCA whose staff came and collected the cats and took them to their Isle of Thanet branch for some care and attention.

The three-year-old animals, two male and one female, have been named Cliff, Frank, and Vera are now said to be doing well and gaining confidence in their new environment.

They were found without microchips and now the charity is asking for information from anyone who may be able to help.

Inspector Kirsten Ormerod, the person who collected the cats, said: “These three cats were sadly abandoned in a taped-up cardboard box and dumped by some bins.

“They were frightened and distressed, struggling from heavy flea burdens and scabs, and were also very nervous.

“Thankfully, I was able to take them into the care of a local branch where they are now getting the care and love they need.

“We’re now appealing for help and asking the public to please contact us on 0300 123 8018 quoting 1236114 if they have any information about this.

“We understand that the cost of living crisis has had an impact on people’s finances and some people may be struggling to care for their pets.

“Reports about animals being abandoned and dumped are rising, and we're seeing more animals coming into our care.”