A "terrified" cat was found abandoned in a carrier on a busy Edinburgh street.

A nearby resident alerted the Scottish SPCA after finding the animal on Picardy Place in the city centre on Saturday.

The cat, which has been named Solo, is being looked after at the charity's animal rescue and rehoming centre in Balerno.

Inspector Jennifer Surgeon said: "Solo was found by a member of the public who stays in a property on that street.

"She was absolutely terrified and shaking and we don't understand why someone would abandon her like this.

"Solo is doing well in the care of our centre. She appears to still be very nervous but is friendly and in good condition.

"We are appealing to anyone with information about who may have abandoned Solo to call us in confidence on 03000 999 999.

"We'd also love to hear from anyone interested in offering her a loving home after her ordeal."

Abandoning an animal is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

Anyone found guilty of doing so faces a ban from keeping animals for a fixed period up to life.