The RSPCA has confirmed they had investigated the business and that the owner had now ceased trading. There will be no prosecution.

Alsager-based welfare officer for the Ocicat and Bengal Cat Club, Georgia Browning described the conditions in which more than 60 pedigree animals, with price tags varying from £150 to £400, were kept as 'appalling'.

Her association made an unusual rescue bid for a blue eyed snow spotted Bengal mother (queen) and her two male kittens. They bought them for £450.

Within 48 hours one of the kittens was dead. Its brother and mum are now both doing well at Crewe in the care of well known cat champion, Alan Fairhurst

"We had feared for the lives of all three because of their condition. They and the other exotics which included Maine Coons, Ragdolls and Persians were being housed in cages like rabbit hutches, far too small. They were filthy and although there were signs of food and water, most of the animals were sick and under-fed," said Mrs Browning.

The elderly woman who ran her business from the lock-up had also traded in puppies.

"Breeders and anyone else wanting an exotic cat should check out where they are coming from very carefully. Not only will they spend a great deal of money on a sick animal, but they may find disease spreading to any others they may have," warned Mrs Browning.

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