Pet owners are being advised to be on their guard after a young cat was found mutilated on a driveway in High Street, Ramsgate.

A critical care paramedic made the gruesome discovery after leaving her home at 8am yesterday morning.

After speaking with friends she learned the Croydon cat killer could be responsible and contacted animal welfare group, South Norwood Animal Rescue (SNARL).

The group are working with the RSPCA and the Met Police into the killings which are believed to be over 300.

The woman said the injuries sustained by the animal were horrific.

The 29-year-old added: "It's a very tragic loss of what is likely to be someone's loved pet, and horrible to think it was a deliberate act.

"I wrapped him up in a blanket so nobody else had to see him in that state "

SNARL founder Tony Jenkins confirmed his team had visited the premises.

"There will be a post-mortem. We have raised £5,000 to have them done privately. At the moment we are linking it to the other killings.

"This person has also killed foxes and up to 50 rabbits - in some cases they have cut the head off and then put it back into the hutch before locking it again.

If you find an animal that has been mutilated call SNARL on 07961 030064 or 07957 830490.