Distinctive cat found in Livingston
The Scottish SPCA is seeking the owner of a cat found with a distinctive message on his collar in Livingston.
We were contacted by a resident of Bankton Park West who spotted the black cat in her garden on Thursday (30 August). His leg had become trapped in his collar while it was still around his neck.
The lady who found him cut off his collar and discovered a message on the tag attached, which read 'I am on a special diet, please do not feed me'.
Our animal rescue officer immediately took the cat to a vet but, despite tests to try and identify his condition, it is still unclear why he requires a special diet.
Now named Blackthorn, the six year old male is being cared for at our Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre.
Animal Rescue Officer Mel Maitland said, "We're very keen to trace Blackthorn's owner as soon as possible.
"The vet ran various tests to determine why he needs a special diet but this still isn't clear, although they were able to rule out the possibility he is diabetic.
"We have had to feed Blackthorn as he was found yesterday and we don't know when he last ate, so we've started him on a special sensitive diet.
"Somehow his leg had become caught in his collar and this has caused a deep wound under his arm pit which has become infected. He's now receiving treatment for this though and is doing well.
"Hopefully someone will recognise the friendly Blackthorn and come forward for him soon."
Anyone who recognises Blackthorn is being asked to call our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.