The RSPCA is appealing for information after a cat’s leg was caught by a trap in Cefn Hengoed.
It was contacted after the two-year-old black cat was found at Cheriton Avenue with the trap still attached to his leg.
Tthe black cat, called Ronnie, was immediately taken to a veterinary surgery after its owner was contacted.
RSPCA inspector Sophie Daniels said: “His foot was massively swollen. Luckily he had no broken bones and had just bruising and swelling and soft tissue damage.
“He has been put on medication and is now much better. It was lucky he wasn’t severely injured, but the poor thing must have been in so much pain.
“As we don’t know where the trap may have come from, or who may be responsible we are appealing for information.
“The trap is a fenn trap – which isn’t illegal – but domestic animals often fall foul of traps, and it is illegal to cause unnecessary suffering by using them.
“If anyone has any information about this incident, please get in touch. Please ring our inspectorate line on 0300 123 8018, which is in confidence.”
Ronnie’s owner said: “Ronnie didn’t come home the night before so we were concerned about him.
“We thought he had a broken leg, but luckily it wasn’t. He is just limping around a lot. He is on painkillers. I am just glad he is okay.”
RSPCA’s wildlife scientific information officer Llewelyn Lowen added: “There are strict legal conditions on setting these types of traps and if they are not set in the right way a domestic animal, like this cat, can get injured or even killed. If this happens the person setting the trap could be committing an offence.
“Generally speaking however, cats should not get caught in fenn traps if they are being set properly. Those using the traps should be fully aware of the legislation regulating their use and of codes of practice that should be followed.
“These traps should be set inside real or artificial tunnels and the entrance to the tunnel should be restricted so as to avoid incidents like this.”
Anyone with information can call 0300 123 8018, with calls treated in confidence.