An animal rescue group says two cats have been found mutilated in a town over the last two days.

Natasha McPhee, of Animals Lost and Found, said they were called to inspect the dead animals, one of which was found in a school playground near Breton Road, Rochester, by its owner.

The other was discovered in nearby Maidstone Road.

Miss McPhee, director of the Gillingham-based charity, said in both incidents, a sharp blade had been used to cut the cats.

On the Maidstone Road attack, she said: "It became quickly apparent this cat did not die from a road traffic accident, animal attack or an accident.

"We then took the cat to our vet, who confirmed our suspicions about what had happened to this baby. It is of no doubt there has been human involvement. Parts of the cat are missing and it looks as though a very sharp instrument was used. "

The cat was chipped and owners have been informed.

"All relevant authorities have also been informed. Please be vigilant in your local area."

Miss McPhee added that the other pet found yesterday did not die of "natural causes, an RTA or animal attack".

She said: "This poor baby had been cut in such a way that only a very sharp blade or instrument could have been used.

"The cat was found in a school playground by the owners near Breton Road in Rochester."

Police spokesman, Marin Very said:"Kent Police was called at 10.35am on Monday 21 October 2019 following the discovery of a dead cat near Breton Road, Rochester that appeared to have been mutilated. The cause of the cat’s injuries are not known at this stage and enquiries are ongoing."

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