Road workers in Ireland have been branded 'beyond callous' after painting over the legs of a dead cat at the side of the road - without even bothering to move it.

A photographer took the picture of the cat laying on its side with two lines of yellow paint over its legs near Ballyheigue, County Kerry.

It was then sent to a local animal rights group, Animal Help Net Kerry, which posted it on their Facebook page, leading to outrage and calls for a council probe.

Spokeswoman Jean Campbell said: 'When we saw the photo we were horrified.

'To do something like this to a dead cat is beyond callous. It wouldn't have taken more than 30 seconds to remove the body.

Shocking: A photographer took the picture of the cat laying on its side with two lines of yellow paint over its legs near Ballyheigue, County Kerry

Removed: When the anonymous photographer went back to see if the cat was still there, it had been removed, leaving gaps in the roadside markings

'We can only imagine what would have gone through the minds of the poor cat's owners if they had come across this. They would have been heartbroken.

'We can only hope that the council look into how this has been allowed to happen.'

It is not known how the cat was killed before it was found last Thursday, but it is thought it had been hit by a car.

When the anonymous photographer went back to see if the cat was still there, it had been removed, leaving gaps in the roadside markings.

More than 400 people commented on the picture posted online, expressing their outrage.

One person called it a 'disgrace'. Another branded the council workers who left the cat on the roadside 'heartless'.

Sherie Allan posted: 'So wicked. Imagine how the poor people felt who owned the cat. I bet they were heartbroken. So sad.'

Genny Heffernan wrote: 'Stupidity at its best. Or worst!!!! Pathetic creatures.'

Jean added: 'When the second picture was sent to us it was clear that the lines hadn't been filled in.

'We don't know what has happened to the poor cat. Hopefully somebody took pity on it and buried it.'

A spokesperson for Kerry County Council said: 'The remarking of roads is carried out by a private company, under contract to Kerry County Council.

'We are examining the issue and will consult with the contractor.