A PAIR of flea-ridden kittens handed in to a Cross Roads-based charity died of anaemia, triggering a warning that such pets must receive proper care from their owners

Along with four adult cats including their mum, the kittens Hope and Hero were given to Yorkshire Cat Rescue by social services as their owner was unable to care for them.

Charity founder Sara Atkinson said: "These tiny kittens were completely covered in fleas and none of them had the energy to suckle for food. Poor Hero was so anaemic that we sent her straight to the vet for urgent treatment."

Little Hero didn’t survive long, despite receiving medical attention, and Hope also died shortly afterwards.

Sara added: “People just don’t realise how dangerous fleas can be – especially for young kittens and vulnerable adult cats. We pulled off a staggering 50 fleas from Hope and Hero alone – far too many for their tiny bodies to carry.

“Unfortunately for Hope and Hero, all that is left is their story and a warning to owners to make sure their cats are treated for fleas.

"Hundreds of cats and kittens come through our doors each year but these two little mites were a little bit special to me, and they will not be forgotten."