THE RSPCA has described an attack on a cat - in which its tail was cut-off - as “appalling”.

THE RSPCA has described an attack on a cat - in which its tail was cut-off - as “appalling”.

Fudge, an 18-month-old ginger cat, returned to his home in Thorpe St Andrew in Norwich after being out for just 24 hours. He had suffered a severe injury in which his tail had been completely amputated.

Fudge's distraught owner took her pet to a vet who believes the injury was caused by a sharp implement, possibly a knife.

Since then Fudge suffered post-operation complications and had to have another operation to repair the skin around the wound.

His owner said: “Fudge does not wander too far from home and is very friendly so probably would have gone to his attacker voluntarily. I cannot believe someone could do this to an animal.”

RSPCA inspector Ben Kirby said: “This was an appalling attack. It is disturbing to imagine what sort of person or people would do this to an animal so we need to hear from anyone who knows anything as soon as possible.”

Those found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal could face a maximum six-month prison sentence and/or a �20,000 fine.

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 1234 999 and quote incident number 317/06/01/09, or call Norfolk Constabulary.