Cat put down after suffering 'suspicious injuries'

Tyson was found with serious injuries in October

An investigation has been launched after a 20-year-old "beloved" pet cat was found with severe and suspicious injuries, the RSPCA has said.

Called Tyson, the cat was originally believed to have been hit by a car after being found in Bentley Close, Loughborough, Leicestershire, on 24 October.

However, further investigations found her injuries "inconsistent" with a road traffic accident and were so severe she had to be put down.

Owner Dee Boden-Ford, who has owned Tyson since she was eight weeks old, said she "misses her very much".

RSPCA inspector Karl Marston said Tyson had a new fracture to her hind left leg, and a very clean wound to her abdomen, "which did look suspicious".

Ms Boden-Ford, who had been searching for her cat, said: "She was my constant in my life - I loved her and miss her very much.

"It's so strange that no-one really knows what has happened.

"She's lived here for more than 20 years with no issues.

"I just want closure and urge anyone who knows anything to get in touch."