A FAMILY are in shock after an unknown attacker shaved their long-haired cat.

Six-year-old Mia was trimmed in an “unbelievable” assault some time on Monday.

Horrified owner Lee Stafford, of Plymouth Avenue, Bevendean, Brighton, said: “My son came in and said someone had shaved the cat.

“I told him that no one would have done that.

“I had never heard of anything like this before.

“It’s horrible because it’s animal cruelty. I just don’t know why anyone would do this.”

Mia has been shaved under her belly, around her backside and on the top.

It is not known exactly where the attack happened.

Lee said she did not seem to be physically injured but had been become more nervous, subdued and twitchy.

His wife Clare said she had lived in the area for 17 years and had never heard of something like this before.

The couple want to alert their neighbours in the hope those responsible can be caught or warned off the area.

They said: “We find this cruel and distressing.We want other cat owners to know of this attack and become aware and vigilant.

“Fortunately she is rather feisty and has escaped her kidnappers.

“I am sure they will be suffering from being

scratched and bitten in the struggle.”

An RSPCA spokeswoman said: “Shaving a cat in this way could cause huge distress to both the animal and their owner and if it was done as a prank it is very irresponsible.

“We appeal for anyone who may have information about what happened to Mia to contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 4999 or to contact the police.”