A grumpy-looking cat "who stole the hearts of many" during the pandemic has been rushed to the vets.

Arthur, a Persian feline, was rescued by Billy Devitt of Wisteria Cat Rescue in Rochester three years ago, after his previous owner could no longer afford to have him.

Since then the moggie has racked up a huge fan base and even featured on ITV's national news programme with TV presenter Mary Nightingale.

But he gave Billy a scare yesterday after falling ill.

"Arthur was rushed to the vets in the morning as he was struggling to urinate." Billy explained.

"Once he was assessed it was found that his bladder was backed up and he was sedated.

"After 45 minutes his bladder was emptied. Arthur, after giving me a worry all day, is now home and on a range of medications, and a specialised diet, to assist him to pass urine.

"We hope this fixes his troubles along with the ongoing vet check ups.

"It’s such a worry when your babies get poorly and I’m so happy to have my grump back home where he belongs."

Arthur has a struvite bladder stone, which is one of the most common bladder stones in cats.

It is made of a mineral which is a mix of ammonium, phosphate, and magnesium.

Billy, who launched Wisteria Cat Rescude in March 2020, added: "Yesterday his treatment cost around £600.

"The importance of catching these illnesses early is key in Arthur's recovery.

"He's a handsome little thing and it is just so worrying. He came to us in terrible condition and stole the hearts of many when he was featured on ITV.

"Arthur is a sweet, angelic lad who knows what he wants and when he wants it."

Billy affectionately refers to Arthur as a "grumpy soul" and as his "best friend".

He said: "My little darling Arthur, this grumpy soul, is known by most of our supporters.

"When he came to me he was fiesty, cheeky and had a typical matted Persian coat. But I adored him from the minute I met him.

"He warmed to me and I would sit with him for hours at a time just laughing at him."