A cat narrowly escaped losing her leg after becoming caught in a "barbaric" trap.

The RSPCA is appealing for information after the animal, named Aqua, was discovered in the metal device in a front garden in Hadlow.

The female tortoiseshell, thought to be around a year old, was found stuck by a passing member of the public by a hedge in a front garden in Marshall Gardens.

Her left back leg was caught in the trap, which had sharp, serrated jaws that were closed around it.

When the animal was released, she attempted to run away, but could only drag her leg.

She was taken to a vet surgery, where she is still being treated for a severely infected wound.

"I can’t imagine the amount of pain and distress this poor cat must have felt while she was caught in this illegal trap..." - Andrew Kirby, RSPCA

Initially, it was feared the leg would have to be amputated, but Aqua is now making steady progress and it is hoped this will not be necessary.

The Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells branch of the RSPCA has taken on her treatment, after the owner could no longer care for her because the vet bills were too high.

RSPCA inspector Andrew Kirby said: “I can’t imagine the amount of pain and distress this poor cat must have felt while she was caught in this trap.

“The wound on her leg is really nasty and needing a lot of treatment but it was at first feared to be worse - we thought she’d have to have it amputated. Luckily for her she is making steady progress now though, so it is hoped this can be avoided.

“We do not know who set this trap or why, but urge people to be aware how dangerous they can be for pets and wildlife.

“We do not know who set this trap or why, but urge people to be aware how dangerous they can be for pets and wildlife.

“These are traps can pose a huge danger to both wild and domestic animals."

The RSPCA is against the use of any trap or snare that causes suffering.

If you have any information about who may have owned the trap, or put it there, call the charity on 0300 123 8018.

Stories you might have missed

Driver 'crushed' after car flipped on motorway

School on alert after pupils followed

Warning in place as Met Office predicts snow

Hundreds more GPs needed in Kent