A tiny pair of the world’s rarest and smallest wild cats have been born at a sanctuary in the UK.

The rare felines, which only measure around 13 to 19 inches in body length, are part of the Rusty Spotted Cat Conservation Breeding Programme. Sanctuary staff are more than happy to have the chance to help raise and protect the adorable rusty-spotted cats which are normally native to Sri Lanka and India.

One of the cute kittens was seen snuggling up to its mother at Porfell Wildlife Park.

A spokesperson said: “Last summer we had the opportunity to take on a pair of rusty-spotted cats, had an enclosure spare and were excited to have something so rare.”

“To our understanding we are estimating that there are only around 50 of this species being kept in captivity across the world.”

The spokesperson added: “The pair came from the Feral – Wild Animal Project run by Todd Dalton and are part of a breeding program. They are coming up to eight weeks old and have been well looked after by mum.

“We are unsure of their gender as she’s so protective and doesn’t let us too near. They have only recently been spotted out of their den and seem to be getting more curious each day.

“They both seem very healthy and have started to show a little bit of personality.

“They’ve been giving our very small team a lot of joy during all this uncertainty and put a smile on our faces each morning.”

One internet user commented: “Too cute! I am often in awe of the different types of creatures that roam this vast earth, this is just another one to add to that list!”

Another wrote: “Wow stunning! I’m allergic to cats but I love looking at them.”

Because of the coronavirus lockdown, the sanctuary is currently facing financial issues and are now appealing for help on GoFundMe.

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Replaced!