A kitten has been found covered in faeces and dumped in the street after being sexually abused.
The nine-week-old male is receiving specialist treatment to his rectum following the horrific attack.
The RSPCA has launched an appeal to find the sick culprit responsible after the kitten suffered the devastating injures.
The animal was found covered in mud and faeces at about 2pm on Sunday by a member of the public in Nottingham.
Animal Collection Officer (ACO) Hayley Day was sent to the scene and took the kitten for emergency veterinary treatment at Arnold and Carlton Vets.
Vet Ben Berlyne found severe damage to the kitten's rectum suggesting sexual abuse.
Hayley said: “When I collected the kitten I could see he was trying to defecate but was really struggling and he was so swollen around the rectum that I couldn’t tell what sex he was.
"He was also covered in faeces and very skinny.
“The vet said the injuries to his rectum suggested he had been sexually abused and it is so upsetting to think of the pain and suffering he has been through as he is such a lovely and friendly chap and I have named him Benny. He just wants to cuddle.
“Benny was not microchipped and so I am appealing for help in tracing his owner who may live near the area where he was found.
“I am also appealing for anyone who may have information as to who is responsible to contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.”
Ben Berlyne, the vet who is treating Benny, said: “The damage to the rectum suggests the kitten has been sexually abused. I am now treating him with pain-killers and am trying to assess the extent of the injuries.
“He is such a lovely and friendly kitten in spite of the horrific ordeal he has been through. It is sickening to think what he has endured.
“Today he has some food which is good. He is also having antibiotics and anti-inflammatories and some gel has been applied to his rectum to help reduce the swelling and tearing in that area - but he still has a long way to go.”
This winter, the RSPCA expects to take in more than 10,000 animals in need.
To help them deliver vital supplies to thousands of abused, neglected and abandoned animals, visit www.rspca.org.uk/giftofkindness .
