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The SSPCA has launched an undercover probe after a cats were found trapped by illegal rabbit snares in Renton.

One pet, Skittles the cat, managed to walk back to her home with two snares attached to her after she strayed into them.

The cat was uninjured but local vets say there have been others trapped by the cruel devices.



The Scottish SPCA has launched a special investigation team to crack down on the use of illegal snares which kill and maim animals by tightening as they moved, strangling and crushing them.

Local people are being urged to check fences for snares.

The worried cat owner, whose cat fell foul of the snares in Renton on October 19, said, “Luckily my cat was uninjured by the snares, she was just a bit spooked.

"I took her to the vets anyway, just to be on the safe side.

"The vet told me there had been another cat brought in the week before with the same type of snare attached to it who lived in the same area.”

An undercover inspector from the charity’s Special Investigations Unit said: “We are looking to raise awareness in the area and advise owners to be vigilant.

Where possible check any fences near to where you live for these devices. If anyone does find any, we ask that you contact us immediately.

“In this case the cats have managed to shake themselves free, but illegal snares will tighten as the animal moves, so if they can’t get free it’s possible for them to be strangled.

“These snares would have been set illegally. They are likely to be attached to the bottom rung of a wire fence and are not fitted with any stops or tags which is a legal requirement for snares.”

Anyone with information is being urged to contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

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