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A couple were left speechless after a visit to the vet revealed their pet kitten Twinkle had both male and female genitalia.

Retired care worker Brian Green took his 'little black and white princess' to his local vets to be neutered.

But was “shocked” to receive a call informing him that Twinkle also had male genitalia.

Brian, from Norris Green near Liverpool, told the Liverpool Echo: “It hasn’t sunk in yet.

“We always thought she was a female cat so we were amazed when the vet phoned us back. At first I was very worried that something had gone wrong.”

Six-month old Twinkle was booked in at the vets for the routine procedure. But Brian’s partner Cherie received a call at around 2pm to explain the ‘unusual situation’.

(Image: Colin Lane / Liverpool Echo)

The 53-year-old former carer said: “When she told me Twinkle was a hermaphrodite, I thought what does that mean? I have found out since that it is very rare and we are going to get her chipped to keep a close eye on her.

“I have had cats my whole life and this is definitely the strangest thing that has ever happened. The vet told us a lot of staff had been going in to see her because they have never seen a case like this before.”

After speaking with the owners the vet removed Twinkle’s male parts leaving her female once again.

She is now back home and recovering well alongside her brother Socks.

Brian and Cherie share their home with 18 cats but they insist Twinkle remains the pick of the litter.

Brian said: “She is still my little princess and my favourite.

“We called her Twinkle because she had a little twinkle in her eye when she was born – and now we know why.

“It was a very strange day. It is the last thing you expect to hear when you take your pet to the vets.”

Cherie added: “She doesn’t seem fazed by it and is doing well. All they look forward to is their food and a good cuddle and that it is it.”