The RSPCA is searching for answers after a frightened cat was discovered abandoned in a cave near Stoke-on-Trent, England.
A Samaritan found the cat in a cage inside a cave
A Good Samaritan found the cat alone in a carrier inside Beech Cave and immediately brought the feline to a local veterinarian. Fortunately, the cat had no visible injuries, so the vets transferred the pet into the care of the RSPCA.
“This poor cat was found alone in a cat carrier in this dark cave,” said RSPCA animal rescue officer Tom Hall. “He had no food or water with him and was very scared. Luckily he has no obvious signs of injury.”
The RSPCA team provided excellent care for the poor cat
While the cat did not sustain any physical harm, his rescuers said the pet is highly anxious after being left in the strange, isolated environment of the cave. The RSPCA is now trying to determine who abandoned the cat and why.
“He’s not microchipped, so we’re not able to find out who he belongs to,” Hall added. “I went down to the location and left a found poster on the cave’s entry. Luckily he was spotted – we’d really like to thank the person who took him to the vets and brought him to safety.”
The abandoned cat will remain in the RSPCA North Staffordshire Branch’s care until a permanent home can be found. If the owner does not come forward, the feline will be put up for adoption.
The RSPCA acknowledged that the cat’s abandonment could be related to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which has forced some pet owners to give up their animals.
“We understand that the cost of living crisis has had an impact on people’s finances, and some people may be struggling to care for their pets,” Hall said. “Reports about animals being abandoned and dumped are rising, and we’re seeing more animals coming into our care.”
The organization is urging anyone with information about the cave-dwelling cat to contact their appeals line. They hope to uncover the circumstances behind this troubling case of animal abandonment.
