A YOUNG cat was left to die in a bin bag, the RSPCA has said.

Officers launched an investigation after the black cat was found trapped inside a bag in Westcliff.

The female cat, now called Titch, was found sealed in a rucksack, which was tied, inside a bin bag.

The bag was then left in a bin in Glenwood Avenue, Westcliff, some time on Friday, January 8.

Insp Matthew Gough, who is looking into the incident, said: “This was a deliberate act to harm a healthy, friendly animal. Titch was very lucky to have been heard in the bin before she suffered any permanent harm.”

It follows a string of cases in which dogs have been dumped across south Essex.

Titch has recovered from her ordeal and has now been offered a home with a new family.

Anybody with any information on this incident is asked to call the RSPCA, in confidence, on 0300 1234 999 and leave a message for Insp Gough.

l The RSPCA still has a several adult cats which need a home.

To rehome a cat, contact the RSPCA’s Southend branch on 01268 752875.