Urgent warning about ‘barbaric’ steel-jaw traps as heartbreaking photos emerge of two cats trapped and injured in a week
- Two cats got caught in steel jaw traps
- WARNING: distressing images
Two domestic cats have been injured after getting caught in ‘barbaric’ steel traps in Perth this week, prompting an urgent warning.
The RSPCA has issued a ‘stern’ warning against illegal trapping after rescuing a cat in Nedlands, west of the city, on Tuesday and another in Greenmount, east Perth.
One cat managed to walk home with the trap still around its leg, while the other was found trapped in the backyard of a suburban home.
Fortunately, both cats are recovering after veterinary attention from the RSPCA.
But Western Australia inspector manager Kylie Green warned that many pets are not so lucky.
Two cats had to be rescued from steel jaw traps in Perth this week (pictured is one of the cats receiving treatment at the RSPCA after its paw got caught in a steel jaw trap)
“We want to remind the community in the strongest possible terms that steel jaw traps are illegal in WA, as they cause horrific injuries and immense suffering to pets and wildlife,” he said.
‘Trapped animals are often in such dire conditions that they cannot be saved.
“There is certainly not many more to be found, which means they are dying in extreme pain.”
The WA RSPCA receives around 5-10 calls related to illegal cheating each year.
People caught with the traps, which are often used as decorations despite being defined as a “prescribed inhumane device,” face fines of up to $50,000 and five years in prison.
RSPCA inspector manager Kylie Green (above) issued a stern warning about ‘barbaric’ steel traps
Anyone with a trap to drop off at your nearest RSPCA shelter.
“We’ll destroy it for you, no questions asked,” said Ms. Green.
Steel jaw traps are classified as a “prescribed inhumane device” under the Animal Welfare Act of 2002.
A 78-year-old man was fined $6,000 after his steel-jawed trap caught a domestic cat named Nige.
Nige’s right rear leg was severely injured and had to be amputated.
The RSPCA has a 24/7 cruelty hotline on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358).
The RSPCA reminded the public that steel jaw traps (like the one above) are illegal and owners face fines of up to $50,000 for the ‘inhumane’ devices.
