THE RSPCA is hunting for the owners of a cat found in Caister on Sea which had to be put to sleep due to a severe skin condition.

The male, black and brown long haired cat was found on Tuesday by a workman in West Road, Caister, and it was taken to the vet by an RSPCA inspector, where it was discovered it had extensive necrolytic dermatitis all over its body.

The animal also had an open wound on its shoulder, and was extremely lethargic and wet through.

Its condition was so bad the skin would simply peel off its body, and a vet felt the cat was suffering so much the kindest thing to do was to put it to sleep.

RSPCA inspector Ben Kirby said: 'This poor cat was suffering from an extensive skin condition all over his body, and sadly vets could do nothing to help him. We would really like to find the owner of this cat, as it did not have a collar or a microchip.

Anyone who has information about the cat's owners, or recognises the picture, should call the RSPCA cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.