A MILFORD Haven cat had a lucky escape after getting caught in a home-made snare.

The female grey cat, named Molly, returned to her Hubberston home with a free-running snare around her neck, made up from fishing wire.

Free-running snares are not illegal, but it is an offence to cause suffering to a protected animal, such as Molly.

RSPCA Cymru said the incident highlighted the "indiscriminate nature" of snares, which the charity is calling to be banned in Wales.

Molly is now frightened to go outside after her ordeal, and the charity is urging other pet owners in Pembrokeshire to be cautious.

RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben said: “Poor Molly’s plight only highlights the indiscriminate nature of snares, which can cause immense pain and suffering to animals.

“Free-running snares are not illegal, but it is an offence to cause suffering to a protected animal.

“It's important cat owners in, and around, the Hubberston are aware of what happened to Molly, as these devices can be so, so dangerous.

“Thankfully, Molly is recovering back at home after this ordeal, but many animals caught by snares are not so lucky.”

Molly’s owner, Keith Coaker, said: "Molly, and our other cat Gizmo, are part of the family.

"It's so sad that harm was caused to her by this snare.

"It's so important people are kind to animals, and it was heartbreaking to see Molly caught by a device like this one."

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