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Cat found in illegal trap had to be euthanised

SSPCA A cat sitting on wet grass with an illegal trap clamped on to one of its legs. The animal, which has matted fur, is staring at the camera. Leaves and broken pieces of wood are also visible on the sodden ground.SSPCA
The SSPCA said the cat was discovered in woodland in Aberdeenshire

An animal welfare charity had to euthanise a cat after it was found critically injured in an illegal trap.

The Scottish SPCA said the pet was discovered in woodland near Macduff, Aberdeenshire, on 28 January.

A spokesman urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

He added: "These illegal traps are indiscriminate and will cause unnecessary suffering to any animal caught in them."

Last March the Scottish parliament passed the Wildlife Management and Muirburn (Scotland) Bill after years of campaigning by the charity.

It includes a range of measures that will give greater protection to wildlife, including a ban on the use of all forms of snares and a ban on use of glue traps.

Anyone who finds a trapped animal in distress or spots a suspected illegal trap or snare is asked the contact the SSPCA's confidential animal helpline.