Adorable kitten making miracle recovery after he was set on fire

A five-week-old kitten who was cruelly doused in petrol and set alight is making a miracle recovery.

The tiny cat, Justin, is lucky to be alive but has been left without ears after the horrific attack.

The adorable creature, who weighs just one pound, suffered second and third degree burns to his back and head after his cruel abusers set him alight.

His rescuer, Damaris Alcala, spotted the helpless animal on fire in New Jersey, USA. He quickly saved the kitten by smothering the flames with his jacket.

He said: "He was already crying when I picked him up but when I moved him in the back he started screaming."

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Justin was taken to the vet who worked quickly to save the poor animal but sadly could not recover his ears.

Animal Alliance executive director Anne Trinkle revealed Justin is doing really well but added he wasn't out of the woods yet.

Authorities in the US are offering a reward of $5,000 (£3,200) in a bid to catch the people responsible for the attack.

Sarah Speed from the Humane Society of the United States said: "This is the latest in a disturbing string of animals apparently being intentionally lit on fire.

"This depraved act of cruelty will not be tolerated, and we hope this reward will encourage anyone with information to come forward and help bring a perpetrator to justice.

"The young cat's ears will have to be mostly removed as a result of the incident and he will have permanent bald spots but it is hoped he will make a full recovery."

Crown Veterinary Specialists and Emergency added: "He loves to eat. He is using the litter box like a good kitty and he has become interested in playing with his toys.

"Thank you all for caring - he is a real sweetheart."