After finding a young tabby cat in a garbage bag with a surgically-inserted feeding tube, Toronto officials are seeking an owner and witnesses.

A city works crew noticed a cardboard box moving on the side of the road at 4220 Midland Ave., a shopping plaza near Steeles Ave., around noon Tuesday.

A worker called Toronto Animal Services, who found a black plastic garbage bag inside containing a 1- to 2-year-old female cat with medium-long red fur. They named the cat Wilma, after the red-haired Flintstones character.

One side of the cat was shaved, with a feeding tube going to its stomach. Officials said it seems to have been surgically-implanted a few weeks ago. The cat was otherwise healthy.

“Attending veterinarians have not been able to find any reason for the tube placement,” said Nicola Ware of Animal Services.

Wilma, who is eating normally, was sent to Rouge Valley Veterinary Hospital to have the tube removed Thursday. Her stomach will be examined to determine why the tube was used. The hospital is also contacting nearby animal clinics to find anyone who has treated the cat.

Anyone with information, especially anyone who saw the box being discarded, is asked to call Toronto Animal Services at 416-338-PAWS (7297). They are also seeking donations to help with the cat’s care.

Ware, who’s been working in animal rescue for 12 years, said she’s upset but not surprised.

“While nothing ever surprises me or shocks me, we’re always left with a feeling of incredulity, exasperation. In this day and age, why is this still happening?”

The cat will be put up for adoption if no owner has come forward by the time the cat is medically cleared.