A cat that turned up caked in dirt from head to paw is on the road to recovery

Marmalade was handed into Margaret Green Animal Rescue in Wareham as a stray.

He was emaciated and was completely covered in dark dirt. The 13-year-old was also suffering from red and itchy skin which had left him bald in some places. The priority for staff was to get Marmalade cleaned up as soon as possible.

Staff at the centre said that unfortunately they were not unused to seeing neglect, but had been appalled by the lack of care Marmalade had suffered.

Veterinary nurse Liz Morgan said: “The extent of the dirt covering Marmalade became apparent when I gave him a bath. The water turned almost black.”

She added: “After his bath, Marmalade started washing straight away – it must have been a huge relief for him.”

Now that Marmalade has been cleaned up, staff say he is doing really well. He has a good appetite and with the right diet, care and a lot of love, staff at the sanctuary have high hopes for this little fighter.

Liz said: “Now that Marmalade is on the road to recovery, we are focusing on finding him the perfect forever home. “He is around thirteen now so he is looking for a lovely home to live out his twilight years.”

The three animal centres rescue and re-home more than 1,200 animals each year, including dogs, cats, horses, farm animals, rabbits and guinea pigs.

Anyone who can offer Marmalade, or any of the other rescued animals, a home should call Margaret Green’s Church Knowle centre on 01929 480474 or via email ck@margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk.

Here is Marmalade enjoying a cuddle after his bath.