A hunt is under way to find the person who dumped three cats in a lay-by on one of Scotland’s most deadly roads.
The felines, since named Lisa, Edna and Betty, were discovered in a cardboard box by the side of the A9 on Tuesday night.
A member of the public handed the females, which are all black, into the Scottish SPCA after finding them in the lay-by near Pitlochry.
The animals had been left without water.
Chief Inspector Brain Cowing said, “All the cats were very nervous and dehydrated, which is understandable given the high temperatures we experienced on Tuesday.
“While the box had air holes, it would have been incredibly hot inside and they had no food or water available.
“Whoever dumped them had no regard for their welfare and we are keen to identify the person responsible.
“We’ll soon be seeking loving homes for Lisa, Edna and Betty, where they’ll receive the care they deserve.”
The charity warns that abandoning an animal is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006 and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period, or life.
Anyone who has information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline by calling 03000 999 999.