AN appeal has been launched by an animal shelter in the county to help give a “brave” stray kitten another chance.

Eight-week-old Smudge recently arrived at Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home after she was found wandering alone near the busy A38 in Quedgeley.

Staff - who named the feline after the little mark on her nose - say she arrived “scared”, “anxious” and refused to eat.

Unfortunately, Smudge took a turn for the worst, became extremely lethargic and had to be taken to an out-of-hours veterinary hospital.

Staff believe she ingested a large piece of plastic, while trying to survive on the streets.

An initial examination showed Smudge was in a critical state and the vet could feel something abnormal in her stomach.

She was diagnosed with intussusception - a life-threatening condition where one part of the intestine slides within another, causing an internal blockage.

After the diagnosis, blood tests, scans and X-rays, Smudge underwent urgent surgery to treat the condition.

Despite her young age, she pulled through the surgery and is already on the road to recovery.

Smudge is being cared for by Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home (Image: Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home)

Mina cattery supervisor said: “Smudge has only been with us for a week and what an eventful week it has been!

“It’s always worrying when such a tiny kitten is not eating, so I knew she needed extra support.

“I’m so happy to know she is now on the road to recovery and it’s so lovely to see her with an appetite!

“She is probably the bravest little kitten I’ve ever met and am excited to see her recover fully and start to enjoy everything being a kitten has to offer.”

The animal charity believes the emergency investigations, surgery and care have cost CDCH approximately £2,131.

The stray kitten was found wandering alone near the busy A38 in Quedgeley  (Image: Google Maps)

A CDCH spokesperson said: “As an eight-week-old kitten, undergoing surgery was a monumental ordeal.

“Yet, this tiny warrior showed incredible strength and bravery.

“Her appetite has already improved and she is continuing to improve day by day.

They added: “Despite her young age and fragile state, we knew we had to fight for her life.

“She deserved the chance, just like any other animal in our care.

“In light of Smudge’s medical expenses, we’ve started this fundraising appeal in the hope that you can help us raise enough money to cover the costs of Smudge’s extensive veterinary treatment.

“Together, we can give Smudge and others like her a fighting chance at a happy, healthy life.”

You can donate to the fundraising appeal here - tinyurl.com/599w4rna