A SCHOOLGIRL is appealing for help to fund expensive surgery for her kitten, who was badly injured in a hit-and-run car collision.

Mahnoor Khan, 15, of Slough, received Bueno the kitten, who is now seven months old, as a surprise present for her birthday.

But last Sunday, Bueno went missing for a full day – finally returning to the family home with a severe limp and in serious pain.

The older sister of Mahnoor, Masuma Khan, 23, of Iver, said: “The poor guy was limping quite badly, and had a big gaping wound on his abdomen. The vets who X-Rayed him said he was most likely hit by a car. I don’t know how he managed to make it all the way home.

“The vets said it was one of the worst fractures they’ve seen, and he now needs complex surgery.

“He’s currently on painkillers and antibiotics – he’s resting, being very quiet. He’s such a brave cat, he hasn’t complained or cried.”

Bueno’s surgery will likely cost as much as £3,000, which is more than the family can afford.

If the money cannot be raised, Bueno will have to have his leg amputated.

This prompted Mrs Khan to set up a fundraiser page, which has rapidly achieved over £2,500 as this newspaper went to press.

Mrs Khan said: “People really came through for us on social media platforms, like Twitter, Facebook and Instagram and shared it amongst friends and family. It’s amazing the power social media has, and how much difference it can make to a life.

“Big YouTubers like Fashionphile also helped spread the appeal and get the message out there. I’d like to thank everybody that donated.”

To donate visit www.gofundme.com/savebueno