Alfred had turned up as a stray in quite a scruffy state just outside of Penzance and came to us here at the centre for some much needed TLC. It is unclear how long he had been a stray for and it is estimated he is between 8-10 years old.

On first inspection it was clear Alfred was in very poor condition, as can be seen from the pictures, he is very underweight and covered from head to toe in multiple scabs which look to be incredibly sore and uncomfortable. As can be expected he was a bit grumpy on first introduction, most likely as a result of his discomfort, so we put him straight in his new cabin with some good quality food and warm blankets and left him to settle. By the next morning, after he had cleared away his meals, he was eager to come out and introduce himself to everyone, chatting and rubbing away!

After his first health check from the vet, it is assumed that Alfred has a severe skin allergy causing the scabs and inflammation over his whole body, the exact cause of the allergy is currently unknown. Additionally he has cancerous changes to his ears, most likely as a result of prolonged sun damage and he is possibly going to require some dental work. Alfred has begun a course of antibiotics and steroids, to help combat any infection in the skin and ease the inflammation. He will be due to see the vet again in one week’s time. In the meantime, the staff at the centre will be ensuring he continues to settle well into his new environment and oversee his care.

The average amount it costs to care for each cat that comes through our centre is £180. In the upcoming weeks, during his journey with us here at the centre, Alfred will be undergoing our routine procedures of flea and worm treatments, microchipping, vaccinations, blood testing and castration. It is very likely that Alfred will also have an operation to remove both his ears (Pinnectomy) that are cancerous. With some added fuss and TLC we are optimistic that Alfred will respond well to treatment and be feeling and looking a massive deal better when he eventually leaves us for his new home.

Keep checking Facebook for updates and photos of his progress!

The cost of his treatments and finding him a new home is likely to reach £300 and we would be grateful for any donations towards the cost.

Please note all funds raised in excess of this appeal will be used to help other cats and kittens in our care.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity. Our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats Protection has simple and clear objectives to help cats:Homing - Finding good homes for cats in needNeutering - Supporting and encouraging the neutering of catsInformation - Improving people’s understanding of cats and their careAchieving this vision is only made possible due to kind cat lovers who support our work. Visit www.cats.org.uk for more information.