TWO young cats have been rescued after being found abandoned in an airtight box.

A passer-by discovered the petrified animals shoved into a hedge and alerted the RSPCA.

They were taken to Danemere Kennels at Tibberton, near Droitwich, where they are now being looked after.

"We've called them Jigsaw and Puzzle, because we just can't understand why people would do this," said kennel owner Sue Quinlan.

Despite their ordeal, the cats, both females aged about 10 months, have survived unharmed.

"They do have worms and fleas, which we're treating them for, but apart from that they have not been starved or anything," said Mrs Quinlan.

The centre, which is inundated with unwanted cats, dogs and ferrets, will keep the cats for seven days while they are neutered, vaccinated and microchipped.

"We always keep them for this long and then they will be up for re-homing," added Mrs Quinlan.

Danemere, which runs entirely on voluntary donations, sponsorship and fund-raising, has taken in animals rescued from many different situations.

Jigsaw and Puzzle were taken to the centre on Tuesday morning after being found on Monday in Redditch.

Anyone who can provide a home, preferably for both of the cats, should contact Sue Quinlan on 01905 345655.