Ruby the cat's love of sunbathing brought her within a whisker of losing her life and cost her both ears.

The stray moggy had her ears amputated after she was diagnosed with skin cancer.

Ruby was rescued after she was found living on the streets in Reading Road, Brighton, by the Cats Protection League.

She was fit and healthy except for her ears, which were red and blistered due to too much exposure to the sun.

Rescue workers recognised the symptoms and feared the worst. She was taken to a vet who amputated both her ears to stop the cancer spreading.

Ruby has since moved in with her new owner in Hove and is expected to make a full recovery.

But she still hasn't got used to her new look.

Her adoptive owner, Tim Hortopp, said Ruby's hearing had been affected as she did not have any earlobes.

He said: "She likes to rub her head up against people like all cats do. But then she realises it hurts her ears and pulls away. At the moment it is painful and it makes her wince.

"But she is slowly starting to relax and play games and feel at home with us."

Chris Watson, of the Cats Protection League, said Ruby's white fur left her susceptible to ultraviolet rays.

Unfortunately for the charity, Ruby's operation proved to be more expensive than they expected and they were hit with a £370 vet's bill.

They are hoping someone will take pity on the moggy and help them meet the cost of the op.

Anyone who would like to help should contact Mr White on 01273 301897.