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A five-week-old kitten is recovering after being doused in petrol and set on fire.

The tiny cat, named Justin, is lucky to be alive after the cruel attack in New Jersey last week.

A quick-thinking Good Samaritan, Damaris Alcala, saved the kitten by smothering the flames with his jacket.

He told 6abc.com: "It was crying when I was picking him up, but when I moved him in the back, he was screaming."

(Image: Animal Alliance)

(Image: Animal Alliance)

Justin, who weighs just one pound, suffered second and third degree burns to his back and head and is being cared for by vets.

Animal Alliance executive director Anne Trinkle told NJ.com that the animal is doing "remarkably well - but he's not out of the woods yet".

Sadly, Justin's ears will have to be removed and the badly burned patches on his back will remain bald.

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

(Image: Animal Alliance)

(Image: Animal Alliance)

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."

In the meantime, Justin continues on the road to recovery.

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

"Thank you all for caring. Justin is a sweetheart! It is our pleasure to care for him!"