A FUNDRAISER has been launched to help a cat recover after vicious thugs set him on fire.

Leo's tail has had to be amputated after it was set alight and in his ears were burned with cigarettes.

The two-year-old cat is thought to have been tortured in Neilston's Glen Avenue on Sunday night.

Neighbour Kimberley McLaughlan set up the Crowdfunding page to raise cash for the £600 vet bills needed to help the beloved animal recover.

In a statement from Leo's owner, she states: “The surgeon [at Rouken Glen Vets] said it was the worst case he'd ever seen - the infection was so bad and his tail was so badly damaged that he had to remove two of his spinal vertebrae.

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“He had a partial ear amputation because a hole was burned straight through his ear. Leo's surgeon made clear that there's no guarantee that he will recover and he’s still hour to hour in his recovery.

“He's had more morphine and intravenous antibiotics. He is far from being anywhere near out of the life-threatening stage.

“Leo will be taking it easy. He's so lucky to be alive and have even a chance of recovery."

She added: “I was told that the surgery could have left him paralysed and completely incontinent for the rest of his life, so I was expecting the worst, but he's come through well so far, so I just have to hope it continues and he can get better.

“It has been utterly horrific and very traumatic time for everyone who has been involved in Leo's care. I've been through every emotion imaginable.

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"It's extremely hard not to get caught up in anger towards Leo's abuser - I just want them to come forward so that they don't do this again.”

To donate to Leo's care, visit here.