The RSPCA and London Fire Brigade have rescued a cat after he was hit by a car and sought refuge inside the chassis of another vehicle.
The incident occurred on 22 June on Leatherhead Road, after a member of the public discovered an injured cat under a parked car. The person called the RSPCA when they discovered the cat wasn’t moving.
Animal Rescue Officer Sam Matthews responded to the call. He said: “The London Fire Brigade were called out to help as this poor cat was stuck and in a lot of distress, and was difficult to reach. After the fire officers moved parts of the vehicle, I was able to reach him with a grasper pole and bring him to safety.
“I took him to RSPCA Finsbury Park Animal Hospital where he was found to have sustained injuries, including a broken tail in two places. He sadly needs a tail amputation.
“We often work with the fire service in situations where animals are trapped or in danger. On this occasion we’re really grateful for their help in reaching the cat and bringing him to safety.”
The black cat was unchipped so an owner has not been identified. Once fully recovered he will be moved to an RSPCA animal centre to be adopted.
The RSPCA advises that in most cases, cats are able to free themselves from tight spots. Unless the cat appears injured, is in immediate danger, or extreme weather conditions are involved, the public is encouraged to monitor the situation for up to 24 hours and attempt to lure the cat with smelly food such as fish or treats.
Summer should be a season of joy for animals. Long walks on golden evenings. Zoomies on the beach. Stretching out in the garden to soak up the sun. But there’s a side to summer you don’t see. For thousands of animals, it’s a season of pain, fear and suffering, when cruelty peaks. Support the RSPCA’s Summer Cruelty Appeal at: rspca.org.uk/endcruelty
