Animal lovers have been urged not to touch a stray cat with a very unusual feature – its fur is bright red.

The crimson feline was spotted wandering around a neighbourhood in League City, Texas, with photos quickly attracting plenty of attention online.

Animal rescuers are now hoping to catch the cat so they can check it over and find out how it came to be such an unusual colour.

It has reportedly been seen in the area on several occasions, but has so far proven difficult to catch.

Its startling red coat has prompted plenty of speculation over whether the colouring is dye, paint or another substance.

Animal welfare workers have asked people not to chase or attempt to grab it themselves, as doing so could frighten it and make efforts to safely secure it more difficult.

Instead, those who spot it have been encouraged to report its whereabouts so rescuers can keep track of its movements.

Despite its extraordinary appearance, there is no suggestion the cat itself poses any unusual threat to people.

The concern is instead for the animal’s welfare, and whether whatever has caused its fur to turn red could potentially be harmful to it.

The bizarre-looking cat has meanwhile become something of a local celebrity, with images of its unmistakable coat being shared on social media.

Rescuers hope to examine the animal, find out what is covering its fur and, if necessary, clean it off safely and return the cat to its normal hue.

Until then, the bright red cat remains one of the more unusual sights roaming the neighbourhood.

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