Paws for a cause - Casper hopes to find a new home for 19th birthday

Cats Protection Leeds Cat Centre have launched an appeal to find a forever home for a cat in their care close to a big birthday.

- by Jennifer Cartwright

Casper, a domestic medium-hair male, will turn 19 years old on Sunday and his carers hope he will receive a very special gift - a new home where he can live out his retirement.

The mature moggy was first admitted to the Cats Protection Leeds Cat Centre in Gildersome in a "sorry state", covered in fleas and severely underweight as his previous owner struggled with his care.

Since then, Casper has undergone dental surgery, a 'lion cut' shave to rid him of fleas, and is now recovering from anaemia and gaining weight.

Now he's on the mend, staff describe Casper as a "handsome all-white gentleman" who is ready for a calm and restful place to call home.