A YOUNG cat was found tied up in a cardboard box and dumped next to a busy road in Devizes this week.

RSPCA inspector Kate Davis was called to Jubilee Buildings in Northgate Street at midnight on Monday after a resident found the black cat.

The cat had been put in the cardboard box which had then been secured with string.

Although it had been left without food and water, it was in good health and had been neutered.

The cat has now been taken to an RSPCA homing centre.

Lucy Clark of the RSPCA said: "Although we are not ruling out that the cat had been stolen and dumped as a misguided prank, it is more likely that it was unwanted.

"We would urge anyone thinking about giving a cat, or any other animal, as a Christmas present to think again.

"It is not like a toy that can be thrown in a corner and forgotten about.

"All pets need looking after and will involve a financial commitment.

"But as far as cats are concerned, you are talking about a commitment that could go on for 15 years or more."