A cat has been found dumped in a box under rubbish in a communal bin in Paisley.

The Scottish SPCA say the female cat would have died had she not been found on Sunday.

The animal welfare charity was alerted after the cat was found by a passer-by on Union Court.

It is now appealing for information on the dark tortoiseshell cat which has two deformed front paws which bend over to the side.

Scottish SPCA inspector Jennifer Connolly said: "It appears that someone has very cruelly placed this cat in a bin.

"The dark tortoiseshell female was understandably a bit traumatised from being left in the bin but otherwise she is doing OK.

"She has very distinctive deformed front paws which bend over to the side. We're hoping that this will help trigger someone's memory."

Ms Connolly added: "This was a particularly cruel act which would have resulted in the feline's death had she not been found.

"This is not only a cruel incident but it is also a crime and we're appealing for anyone with information to get in touch."

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

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.