A 'sweet and affectionate' cat is searching for his forever home after overcoming years of ill health and neglect.

Charlie is currently in the care of RSPCA Macclesfield, South East Cheshire & Buxton branch, having been rescued as a stray living outside a nursing home.

After receiving months of treatment and care, he was adopted, but sadly returned earlier this year when his owner's health deteriorated and they were no longer able to care for him.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: "Charlie has been through so much in his life, but despite everything he remains an incredibly gentle and loving little soul.

"He adores a head scratch, loves his food and has a wonderfully croaky meow that will quickly win you over."

Charlie is currently in the care of RSPCA Macclesfield, South East Cheshire & Buxton branch (Credit: RSPCA)

When Charlie returned to the branch, he was underweight and required extensive veterinary treatment, including seven dental extractions and treatment for conjunctivitis.

Although this knocked his confidence, he has settled well into foster care and is enjoying life again.

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The team also believe Charlie is now mostly deaf, so he is looking for a safe, secure home where he can explore outdoors once settled.

The spokesperson added: "Charlie deserves a second chance with someone who will give him the love, patience and security he's been missing. We know his perfect home is out there and can't wait to see him finally enjoy the happy future he deserves."

For more information about Charlie, or any of the animals currently looking for homes, email [email protected].