SIX neglected Persian cats - dubbed 'The Breakfast Club' by animal welfare staff due to their new names - are now looking for loving homes.

The cats were rescued by RSPCA inspectors from a property in very poor condition, where they had been badly neglected for some time.

They have since been in the care of RSPCA Worcester & Mid-Worcestershire Branch, which spent more than £2,500 to bring them to the point of adoption.

Geraldine Haynes, branch trustee, said: "All the cats had multiple issues and it cost us more than £350 in veterinary costs for each cat.

"As well as all needing consultations, medications, dematting and dentals, all the cats have been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, wormed and deflead".

The six include two-year-old female Pancake and five males: Sugar Lump (10 years old), Teacup (10), Omelette (5), Oatmeal (3) and Beans (7).

As a breed, Persians have specific needs, unlike other cats, and need total commitment.

They can suffer from breathing and eating difficulties, because of the shape of their faces. Their large eyes can easily become infected and daily grooming is essential, otherwise their fur can get extremely matted.

Despite all this, they do make up for their high maintenance needs by being really placid, affectionate and friendly cats.

Mrs Haynes said: "The Breakfast Club are looking for new homes, ideally with owners experienced in keeping Persians or similar breeds. who can devote lots of time and attention to their feline companions and are happy to keep them primarily indoors, with secure garden access to potter around in supervised."

For those who feel they can offer a suitable home, please download a Perfect Match form from the RSPCA website and email it to admin@rspcaworcester.org.uk or phone 01905 821272 (option 2).

Homes will be selected on a most suitable basis and will be subject to a home visit and adoption fee. The fee for under 10s will be £85 and £65 for the 10-year-olds.

Mrs Haynes added: "We would be delighted to hear from anyone who might like to donate towards the cost of their treatment, via our branch website rspca-worcester.org and go to the 'donate and fundraise' section, or by calling our branch administrator on 01905 821272 (option 3) between 9.30am and 1.30pm, Monday to Friday.

You can also help the branch to care for more neglected and abused animals by joining the Worcester Community Lottery and buying a ticket before the first draw on April 27, by going to the branch website's 'donate and fundraise' page for the link or via worcesterlottery.org.

Sign up for £1 a week and you stand the chance to win cash prizes as well as supporting RSPCA Worcester & Mid-Worcestershire Branch.