Kittens found abandoned in bag outside Lincolnshire chip shop

RSPCA animal rescue officer Paula Jones said the kittens were about seven weeks old.

"It is heartbreaking to see such young animals already suffering, having only been in this world a few weeks and to know that someone just abandoned them when they clearly needed veterinary help," she said.

"We understand the financial difficulties some people are experiencing right now, however abandoning your pet is never the answer. There is help and support available."

The RSPCA said the summer months were known as "kitten season" as many litters are born between May and September.

The charity said that it sees an influx of cats coming into its shelters during the summer, but added that this year "there seems to be unprecedented numbers in some locations".

It urged cat owners to get their animals neutered.

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