An animal charity is appealing for help after a family of cats were dumped in hot weather with no food or water.

The RSPCA is urging people to come forward with information after a male and female adult cat and two kittens were found in pet carriers in woodland off Sultan Road in Chatham on Monday, when temperatures reached a 26°C.

RSPCA inspector Kirsten Ormerod said: “It is really sad these poor cats were dumped in hot weather and with no food or water.

“We don’t know how long they had been there for, but we’re just relieved they were found when they were before any further harm came to them.

“The female adult cat was very skinny and also likely pregnant, and the two kittens were riddled with fleas and worms.

All of the cats are now in the care of the RSPCA and recovering well.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the RSPCA’s appeals line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference 01151162.