The RSPCA is appealing for information after a cat with a skin condition was dumped at the charity’s Great Ayton Animal Centre, in Middlesbrough.

A man came into the reception, put a carrier with the cat inside on the desk, said “I don’t want that”, and ran out.

It happened at about 1.30pm on Saturday, March 2. The man is described as middle aged, unkempt, with thinning hair.

RSPCA Great Ayton Animal Centre deputy manager Olivia Duffill said: “The receptionist was on the phone at the time so wasn’t able to follow him.

“It’s thought he jumped into a waiting car and drove away, but this wasn’t caught on CCTV.

“The cat has a skin condition caused by a flea allergy which he is now being treated for.”

The cat, a black semi-long haired neutered male, is around four years old and now in the care of the RSPCA.

“He’s a very friendly cat and quite vocal,” added Olivia. Staff have named him Figaro.

As he wasn’t microchipped there is no way of tracing his owner at the moment. Anyone with any information is urged to contact the inspector appeal line on 0300-123-8018.