The remains of a dead cat were found near a day nursery in Marlow today (Friday).

“Half” a white and ginger cat was found in Sandygate Road, near the Marlow Day Nursery and Marlow CofE Infant School.

The grisly discovery was made this morning, with police being called to the scene.

Animal rescue group SNARL – South Norwood Animal Rescue and Liberty – was also informed, which said it was dealing with “multiple reports” of attacks on animals across the south east region over the past week.

It warned cat owners to keep their pets indoors at night and asked for rabbits, guinea pigs and other outdoor animals to be moved indoors if possible in light of the M25 animal killer, who has thought to have killed hundreds of animals in the past few years - mainly cats, but also rabbits and foxes - and is still believed to be on the loose.

Thames Valley Police said the incident was reported to it at 9.27am and that the investigation was with the RSPCA.

The RSPCA said in a statement: “It’s extremely upsetting that the body of a cat was found in such a distressing state.

“We urge anyone with any information on what may have happened to the cat to call police on 101 or the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.”