The SPCA has launched an official investigation, into the dumping of a much-loved store cat called Rodney.

The story goes that Rodney the tabby had been a regular sight on the counter at Marton's Central ITM store for nearly a decade, but two weeks ago, he was taken by a store manager to a spot 15 kilometres north of the town and left there.

The store initially argued it was 'setting Rodney free' but after a huge outcry, has since posted a Facebook update apologising for the misstep and doing everything in its power to find Rodney and make amends.

Tracy Phillips, SPCA's Head of Inspectorate, told Heather du Plessis-Allan that often many cats find their own way home, but they do not return in a healthy condition. 

"They show up with torn and bloody feet and looking very worse for the wear." 

She says that the SPCA prefers people to find an alternative home for pets rather than dumping them.