The RSPCA have issued a warning about spring traps after a 15-year-old cat got caught in one in Thorpe.

Eastern Daily Press: Percy the cat got his leg trapped in a spring trap near Primrose Crescent. Picture RSPCAPercy the cat got his leg trapped in a spring trap near Primrose Crescent. Picture RSPCA (Image: RSPCA)

The RSPCA was contacted after a cat, called Percy, was found with his leg trapped in a spring trap near Primrose Crescent.

A member of the public saw Percy and called the RSPCA who took him straight to the vets. It is thought he became trapped between 4am and 7.30am on Thursday. Luckily Percy was microchipped so his owners could be made aware.

The trap was removed at the vets and Percy's leg wasn't broken so he is expected to make a full recovery.

RSPCA inspector Ben Kirby said: 'These traps are very dangerous and should always be used responsibly.

'It is important people are aware of the damage these traps can do - this cat must have been in terrible pain.'

The use of spring traps is not illegal but is controlled by two pieces of legislation - the Pests Act 1954, and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

With certain exceptions all spring traps must be tested and approved and they must only be used for the target species for that trap and should be set in a natural or artificial tunnel.

Percy's owner Helen Holmes added: 'I'd like whoever is setting these traps to think about other animals that may get trapped in them.

'Percy was lucky this time but another time a cat might not be so fortunate.

'This also shows the importance of getting your cat microchipped, it meant the vets could contact us straight away to let us know how Percy was doing.'

• If anyone has any information about who may have left the trap call 0300 123 8018.