The white and grey feline gave birth to three kittens, but one was stillborn.

A member of the public came across the box in the Tullichewan area of Alexandria on Monday 11 March and took the cats to a Scottish SPCA animal rescue and rehoming centre.

The animal welfare charity has now launched an investigation and is appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Nikki Morrison, Scottish SPCA centre manager, said the cat was found giving birth and was "extremely distressed".

She said: "The cat and her remaining two kittens are receiving care and attention from our staff at one of our animal rescue and rehoming centres."

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Ms Morrison added: "We would urge anyone unable to care for their pets to contact our confidential animal helpline for support and advice.

"If anyone recognises this cat or has any information surrounding her circumstances, they should call our confidential animal helpline on 03000 999 999."