A feline baby boom has seen a big increase in the number of kittens abandoned across the city.

Cruel owners have dumped litters in boxes beside the road, leaving them 'dehydrated, hungry and motherless', according to a local RSPCA branch.

The problem - sparked by the spike in births during what is the peak season for cat pregnancies - has left the RSPCA Norwich and Mid Norfolk Branch at Costessey inundated with new arrivals.

The branch, on William Frost Way, currently has more than 50 felines in its care, including five litters left this year.

Deanna Lloyd, animal welfare officer at the centre, said: 'We are worried about the escalating amount of cats and kittens we are currently experiencing dumped in area.

'Many are being dumped in boxes at the side of the road, dehydrated, hungry and motherless.'

The main reason so many kittens are in need of homes is this is the time of year dubbed by shelters as 'kitten season'.

Chloe Martin, deputy animal welfare officer, said: 'Unlike dogs, cats roam and when they are in season, the females are more likely to fall pregnant.'

But it is not just kittens in need of homes - the centre is also looking to home dozens of older cats, which have lost their homes for various reasons.

Miss Martin added: 'We are looking for any people who are able to give our cats and kittens loving, caring homes - who can offer everything they need.'

Can you give a cat a home? Contact the branch on 0303 040 1565.