A 'LOVING little cat’ had its leg amputated after getting caught in a ‘horrific’ animal trap.

The pet was found in a garden in Severn Way, West End, with his leg having been clamped in a snare for 36 hours.

The feline's owner declined to speak with the Echo about the incident.

But a neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: “He’s had his little leg amputated unfortunately but he is doing all right and back at home with his owners.

“He’s such a loving little cat bless him.”

Police have now issued advice to residents.

Daily Echo: The cat trap found in a Severn Way, West End The cat trap found in a Severn Way, West End

A spokesperson for the force said: “The person reporting [this incident] was given sufficient guidance on disposing of the trap and advised to speak with other neighbouring properties to warn them of any further traps in the local vicinity.

"If residents find a snare or trap that they believe to be unlawfully set or if they find that a snare or trap contains a trapped live animal, we advise them to contact the police and report it by calling 101.”

The trap - called a gin trap - is designed to catch an animal by its leg or head, using spring-operated jaws with teeth or serrated edges.

Although owning or selling one is not an offence, their use has been illegal in the UK since 1958.

Residents have since described the incident as “horrific” and “awful” with many asking how anyone could do such a thing to an animal.

The RSPCA is now urging people to be “vigilant” and to “keep an eye out” for traps.

A spokesperson for the animal welfare charity said: “Not only is it illegal to set a gin trap, but it is also illegal to cause an animal to suffer as a result.

"We have seen wild and domestic animals, especially cats, fall victim to these traps many times.

“Gin traps are indiscriminate. The victims can be wildlife or family pets but whichever the animal, these traps cause a great deal of suffering, and we are extremely concerned about their use.

“The RSPCA is opposed to the manufacture, sale and use of any traps which cause suffering.

"Animals trapped often struggle when caught and may succeed in pulling the trap from its anchor only to die later from their injuries.

“If you see an animal caught in a trap, please don’t try to free it yourself – you risk hurting yourself and the animal.

“Stay back to avoid stressing the animal and call us with the location on our emergency line 0300 1234 999."