A KITTEN found abandoned in a box has had to have complex surgery costing more than £1,800.

Spencer was handed in to Cats Protection’s Haslemere adoption centre on July 15 by members of the public who found the box dumped on a road nearby.

The 14-week-old kitten’s mother Scarlet and sister Sugar were also in the box.

According to Cats Protection, all three cats were very hot and lucky to have been discovered in time.

“It’s shocking enough that the cats were dumped, but the fact poor Spencer was in such a state is just heartbreaking,” said Hannah Ashwell, Cats Protection’s regional fundraising manager.

“The poor cats have definitely used at least one of their nine lives.”

Scarlet and Sugar have been given the all clear but Spencer needed more investigation.

He had a noticeable limp and an open, infected wound in his groin area. He was also showing signs of discomfort coming from his right hind leg.

After a referral to a specialist vet, x-rays showed Spencer had a fracture to the top of his right femur and required complex surgery on his hip to stabilise the joint.

“He’s been recovering from his surgery at a fosterer’s house along with his sister Sugar,” said Hannah. “As soon as Spencer is well enough, they will be looking for their forever homes.”

Spencer has a long road to recovery and will be receiving veterinary care over the coming weeks with regular check-ups.

However, Hannah and the Haslemere team believe Spencer will be back to full strength in no time at all.

Hannah added: “The total cost of Spencer’s treatment, medication and after care, will cost more than £1,800. Anything people can donate to help cover this cost will be hugely appreciated and will go a long way to helping.”

To make a donation toward the cost of Spencer’s care, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/haslemere-cats-spencer