Abandoned cat rescued after becoming trapped behind boiler
An abandoned young cat who became stuck fast behind a boiler has been rehabilitated by the Bridlington, Driffield and District RSPCA branch members.
Black and white cat Izzy was left behind at the property in Inglemire, Hull, which had been empty for at least 12 days.
She was discovered trapped upside down in a tiny gap between the boiler and a wall by a contractor who had come to service the appliance.
Izzy, who was reported to the RSPCA as “scared but alive”, has since been recovering from her ordeal after being saved by RSPCA animal rescue officer Lizzy Thompson.
Cattery staff who are looking after the one-year-old feline say she is slowly beginning to come out of her shell and is now ready to find a “patient” and “understanding” home, although she has yet to receive a single adoption enquiry.
Lizzy said: “I managed to wrap a towel around Izzy and gently ease her out – she was stuck fast and completely unable to move. She was very scared at first but thankfully we got to her just in time and I did my best to try and reassure her she was now safe.
“As far as we know, no food or water had been provided for Izzy during the time the property had been empty. I saw a small window had been left open in the kitchen and she may have been going outside and scavenging for whatever she could find. It’s also possible she became trapped after desperately searching for something to eat inside the house.”
Bridlington branch cattery manager Sophie Gibbon-Roles, said: “The trauma Izzy went through before coming into our care has understandably had an impact on her behaviour. Small glimpses of her sweet, true nature are slowly shining through, and she’s allowed a few strokes and attention at her own pace from people she knows.
“But she’s still very much in the early stages of feeling safe and remains a very sensitive cat who is not yet comfortable with being handled and can react defensively when she feels overwhelmed.
“Because of this we’re looking for a very specific type of home for Izzy with an experienced cat owner who understands feline behaviour and will give her time, patience and understanding."
If you think you can offer Izzy the right home please visit the branch’s website for details about how to apply or email [email protected].