Three boxes of cats have been found dumped outside an animal rescue centre.

Staff at the Scottish SPCA rehoming centre in Milton, East Dunbartonshire, made the discovery on Monday morning.

They are concerned some of the cats may have escaped and manager Joe McDade is appealing for information on the owners.

Mr McDade added: "To dump any animal in this way is extremely cruel and they would have been exposed to a potential dog or fox attack.

"We're appealing to anyone in the area with information as to who may have owned these cats to contact us.

"All of the cats were wearing blue flea collars so it is likely that the missing ones are, too. We'll continue to look after these cats until we can find them the home they deserve."

Abandoning and causing an animal unnecessary suffering is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.