A cat believed to have been the possible victim of dog-baiting is looking for a loving home after being nursed to better health by dedicated volunteers. Frankie had to have his leg amputated after he was found seriously injured by a council animal welfare officer responding to a suspected hit-and-run in the North Antrim and Glens area of Northern Ireland. Cats Protection said that on arrival, it was clear Frankie’s injuries were not recent and that he had been suffering for quite some time with deep lacerations and old, untreated wounds. It's believed Frankie was previously abused and possibly used for dog baiting. The charity, which took Frankie in and has looked after him since, has launched a JustGiving appeal to raise vital funds to cover the £500 spent on his care, covering surgery, vaccinations, neutering, microchipping, and parasite treatments. Jodie Burnside, adoption team leader, said: "We initially thought Frankie had just been involved in a hit-and-run which left him with a shattered hind leg. "After being examined it was clear his injuries went far beyond that. "When Frankie first arrived, he was not only injured but also emaciated. "He wouldn’t stop eating, which made his previous struggles for food and basic care clear. "Now, Frankie knows he is safe and will always have access to food. "Veterinary teams had to amputate Frankie’s damaged leg and treat his necrotic wounds. "Some areas required surgical drains, while others healed naturally. "Despite the trauma Frankie has endured, both known and unknown, his lovely temperament has never faltered. "He's a goofy character, which led the vet nurses to nickname him 'Frankenweenie'. "He's a very affectionate and playful cat, who loves company and is vocal to show how happy he is."