Two adorable kittens have been rescued from a bin, where they were dumped just before Christmas.
The unwanted ginger cats - one of whom had a broken back - were heartlessly discarded in the bin near Tesco in Chard, Somerset.
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The sweet young cats were discovered in a recycling bin in the supermarket's car park after members of the public heard their little cries from inside.
The RSPCA is now investigating how the kittens, who have been named Stuffing and Bisto, came to be thrown away like rubbish at a time they so very urgently needed help.
RSPCA animal collection officer Clara Scully said: "It's shocking to think someone could just abandon Stuffing and Bisto like this, especially when they needed veterinary attention.
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"They couldn't have entered the bin on their own so it appears they were intentionally left in there by someone who decided to dump the kittens in a bin without care or thought to what happens to them.
"Thankfully they were found in time - it could have sadly been a very different outcome if they had not been discovered before the bin was emptied."
Both kittens are being cared for by the team at RSPCA West Hatch Animal Centre.
Bisto will remain on cage rest because of the broken back and the vet is hoping he will recover, as early signs are very good.
The animal welfare charity is also asking anyone who may have information on how the kittens came to be in the bin at 3.45pm on 2nd December to contact the inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.
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Dermot Murphy, Chief Inspectorate Officer at the RSPCA, said: "Christmas is an extremely busy time in animal welfare, as sadly cruelty and abandonments do not stop over the festive season and our staff work tirelessly to rescue and care for animals in need.
"Last year, there were 1,684 dogs dumped in December and 1,678 abandoned in January, and we saw more dogs than any other animal being abandoned over the festive period.
"We understand that people's circumstances can change which may mean they can no longer cope with their pet but there is never an excuse to abandon any animal like this, as there are other options available to people who are struggling to care for their pets. Dumping a pet is a cruel and callous act which leaves the animal extremely vulnerable and scared.
"We would urge anyone considering getting a pet to think carefully about whether they have the time, care, patience, and resources to care for that animal for the rest of their life and if you feel you really do, then please consider giving a rescue pet a second chance this new year."
Featured Image Credit: SWNSTopics: RSPCA, Life News, News, Animals, Cats