Cat loses toes after getting caught in Warwick trap

[dutchman]

A cat has had to have 3 toes amputated after becoming caught in an illegal trap in Warwick.


Vet Hannah Williams comforts the cat, which was found with its leg caught in the jaws of an illegal gin trap

The RSPCA say the cat, who they have named Elvis, was spotted by a passer by trying to get through a fence on Myton Road at the start of June.

They think the gin trap has been on his foot for at least a day and he had been dragging it along with him, causing massive damage to his toes.

RSPCA animal welfare officer (AWO) Ben Jones, said: “Gin-traps are illegal because of the damage and suffering they cause. Once the trap springs shut it is impossible for the animal to get free or remove the trap itself. The jaws will lock tight around them and can only be prised apart with some force.

“From his behaviour we know Elvis is a semi-feral cat or long-term stray, which means he will have had quite a large territory and may have travelled some way with the trap around his leg.

“It is irresponsible for someone to place a gin-trap in this area. It’s quite a rural area but it’s only half a mile from the town centre, so kids could also get caught by one of these traps.

“If anyone has seen someone laying traps around this area, they should call us on 0300 1234 99 and report it so we can help prevent animals suffering in future.”

Anyone found setting a gin trap which causes unnecessary suffering to an animal faces a maximum £20,000 fine or up to six months in prison.