Multiple "unwell, filthy and frightened" cats have been saved by an animal charity in the Dursley area who were found living in "horrific” squalor.

Approximately 27 cats and kittens were found covered in fleas and filth, and were matted with their own excrement at the property in Swindon.

The cats were rescued by the RSPCA after concerns for the animals were raised following the death of a person who had been living at the address.

Six of the kittens were then taken to Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home in Cambridge where staff have named them after the England football team.

The kittens, aged six weeks old, have been named Bellingham, Rice, Harry, Pickford, Gareth, and Foden - in recognition of their fighting spirit.

Meanwhile, the remaining 21 cats have been taken by the RSPCA to various other rescue and rehoming centres.

According to CDCH staff, the six kittens came to them “scared, timid and poorly” and immediately began receiving intensive veterinary care and antibiotics.

The property where the cats were found was described as "utterly unfit for any living being"  (Image: Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home)

They were found to be seriously unwell, battling with severe anaemia, respiratory infections, sore eyes, and other flu-like symptoms.

Two kittens even had to be taken to an emergency veterinary hospital for critical intensive care including IV fluids and more antibiotics.

However, despite best efforts the two kittens tragically died.

A fundraising appeal has now been launched by the animal charity to help with the cost of medical treatment and around-the-clock care.

A CDCH spokesperson said: “The remaining kittens are on a fight for survival, and the path ahead is fraught with challenges.

“Our hearts break for them, and we are and will continue to do everything within our power to help them pull through.

Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home say they are hoping to give the kittens a second chance they deserve  (Image: Cotswolds Dogs and Cats Home)

“We urgently need your help. The cost of medical treatment, special food, and around-the-clock care is overwhelming.

“Your generosity can make a real difference in the lives of these innocent kittens.

“Every donation, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to giving the remaining babies the second chance they deserve.”

You can donate to the appeal here - tinyurl.com/yn9bxd8t