An ill cat found in Leyton is believed to have been abandoned after her owners could not afford her vet fees.

She was found abandoned in Lea Hall Gardens in a blue and white cat carrier by bins outside a communal block, according to the RSPCA.

The charity said she was so ill she was unable to move and her fur was covered in saliva.

When she was found last month, both of her front legs had shaved patches, indicating she had recently had blood taken at a vets.

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RSPCA animal rescue officer Michael Harrington said: "This leads us to believe that, heartbreakingly, her owners took her to a vet but were unable to afford treatment so cruelly abandoned her - making her yet another victim of the current cost of living crisis."

She is being cared for at the charity’s Finsbury Park Animal Hospital, where staff have named her Shania.

Michael added: "We understand the financial difficulties some people are experiencing right now, however abandoning your pet, or not seeking appropriate veterinary help if it’s needed, is never acceptable.

"There is help and support available and we would urge people to contact their vets, local rescues and animal welfare charities."

Anyone who has information about the cat’s abandonment is asked to contact the RSPCA’s appeals line on 0300 123 8018.