The RSPCA is appealing for information after a cat was found tied up in a pillow case down a drain.

The charity was alerted by a member of the public after they heard cat noises coming from down a drain at the side of the road in Larkham Rise, Chippenham, at about 3.30pm on Monday, March 19.

Having heard the noises the member of the public made a closer inspection and could see a bag down the drain which was moving, so they alerted the RSPCA.

RSPCA inspector Becky Griffiths was tasked to rescue the animal and having removed the drain cover discovered a white and floral pillow case, about three foot down, which was knotted at the top and contained an adult female cat.

The cat was in good condition and was not injured, however she appeared very traumatised by her ordeal.

Now the RSPCA is appealing for information in a bid to find the owner of the cat, which is thought to be about two years old, and discover who was responsible for her being trapped in the drain.

RSPCA inspector Griffiths said: "It may be that this animal was left in this way as a cowardly prank, however, without any information, we cannot rule out the possibility that an owner did this to their own pet, either to abandon her or as a deliberate attempt to drown her.

"Luckily, the drain she was found in was dry but if there had been heavy rain she could have faced a horrendous death by drowning."

Investigations suggest that the cat had been trapped for a maximum of 48 hours.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to call the RSPCA cruelty or information line on 0300 1234 999 and leave a message for Inspector Becky Griffiths.

Under the Animal Welfare Act anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal can face up to six months in prison and/or a £20,000 fine.

The friendly tabby and tortoishell coloured cat, is currently in foster care, where she has been called Annie and has already been offered a home.