Help is needed from animal lovers across Yorkshire and beyond to secure a long and healthy life for a sick Ryedale kitten.

Seventeen-week-old Joe was brought to the Norton branch of the Cats Protection League (CPL) after being rescued from an out-of-control colony at Sproxton.

When he arrived, he seemed perfectly healthy and went out to a foster family, but his new owners noticed he was growing slowly and drinking an unusual amount of fluid.

He returned to the CPL, where, after a number of tests at Apple Garth Vets in Norton, he was diagnosed with diabetes insipidus.

Joe is now on a programme of treatment, but his carers need as much information as possible about the condition to help them tackle it.

CPL co-ordinator Marina Dowson said: "It is such a rare condition for felines it came as a shock to us, but at least we know what the matter is now. Diabetes insipidus is different to the version that can affect humans and dogs, as it mainly attacks the growth and development of the animal but, at the moment, Joe is doing fine.

"However, we need to know as much as possible about the illness, so if anyone out there has owned an animal to have suffered from it, please contact us."

Marina said that despite the condition, Joe was doing really well.

She added: "He is a bit small for his age, but he is a lovely little cat who is really enjoying his life. Let's hope it continues."

If you know anything about diabetes insipidus, or would like to make a donation to CPL, ring either Marina, on 01653 693958, or Applegarth Vets on 01653 697299.