The RSPCA is appealing for help to make the life of a young cat with advanced cancer "as pain-free and special" as possible.

Rose the Bengal was rescued as a stray last month and taken in by the charity's Isle of Thanet branch - which is now trying to find her a loving foster home and raise money for her care.

The four-year-old cat was found suffering from a large lump on her back leg, which biopsies soon revealed to be soft tissue sarcoma - "a nasty form of cancer".

"Loving and playful" Rose sadly needed an amputation, in order to remove the growth.

Emily Mayer, branch manager at RSPCA Thanet, said: “Due to [the lump's] size, the vets decided the only option was to amputate her leg to try and eliminate the cancer.

“We have sadly since discovered another cluster of lumps on her chest which also require removal.

"Unfortunately, the vets have concluded that the cancer is likely to come back which is absolutely heartbreaking."

Rose has now had the surgery to remove her leg and the branch is appealing to animal lovers to help fund this cost, as well as the cost of her on-going care which could amount to £3,000.

They hope to help make life more comfortable for Rose, who is described as "a beautiful soul".

Staff are also looking for a special foster home for the cat, with someone who can give her some much-needed care and attention.

“At the moment, all we can do is make her life as pain-free and as special as we can," said Ms Mayer.

“Rose is a young cat who is so loving and playful and she deserves every chance of happiness.”

If you think you could offer Rose a foster home, please contact the branch by emailing info@rspcathanet.org.uk.

To donate, visit the fundraising page here.www.justgiving.com/campaign/RosetoRecovery