AN ANIMAL rescue centre is struggling to re-home this ugly moggy – because it looks like evil Lord Voldemort from the Harry Potter films.

Workers at the charity say visitors have been scared off by the white cat’s resemblance to Ralph Fiennes’ character in the blockbuster movies.

The abandoned cat, named Charlie, had to have its ears and nose removed after suffering from skin cancer.

Vets say Charlie’s pale skin left him at risk of developing the potentially fatal disease.

They are now trying to rehome him and say a family of fans of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter could offer their best hope.

Charlie, a 14-year-old domestic shorthair cat, was living as a stray before a woman adopted him, fed him and took him to a vet for surgery.

But he failed to get on with her other two cats and dog, and she was forced to take him to The Blue Cross at West End, Southampton.

Staff at the centre say he loves “fuss, lots of tickles and cuddles” but would be best suited to a home with no other pets.

Animal welfare assistant Marie Loveridge said: “At first glance, people may be put off by Charlie because he does look like Voldemort, the baddie from the Harry Potter films.

“But although some people might think he’s a bit quirky-looking after having his ears and nose removed, he is a lovely, playful cat who adores attention.

“Perhaps he would be a great cat for a Harry Potter fan.”

Vet Alison Thomas said: “Charlie is an extreme example of what can happen to cats if they suffer too much exposure to the sun.

“This drastic surgery can be avoided if owners are vigilant and take steps to protect their animals from the harmful rays of the sun.”