Rescue operation to save cat stuck on post

A daring Peterborough cat who climbed an electricity pole had to be rescued this week by the RSPCA and UK Power Networks after he became stuck at the top of the 30ft high post.

The cat was spotted at the top of the pole in Ramsey Road in Farcet. Residents had seen a loose dog chasing the cat, prompting it to dash up the post to safety. They had waited 24 hours to see if he could come down of his own accord, but when he was still stuck fast that day, they called the RSPCA for help.

RSPCA inspector Steve Reeves said: “A cat stuck up an electricity pole might sound far-fetched, especially on

April Fool’s Day, but in my job as an RSPCA inspector, we’re used to facing the weird and wonderful.

“When I arrived it was immediately clear that this really was no laughing matter. The poor cat was not only stuck 30 feet high at the top of the pole, but was also positioned between two live cables which was incredibly dangerous. I knew I had to help him urgently, but also had to be incredibly careful for my safety and the safety of those living locally.”

Steve contacted UK Power Networks, who own the electricity post, to lend a hand. Thankfully, a crew was able to spare some time to help, and bringing along a cherry picker, they arrived to rescue the cat.

The cat is thought to be semi-feral and has been known to residents for many years. It seems he’s made a home for himself in outbuildings and seems to be very selfsufficient, though residents keep a close eye on him.

Steve added: “Once he was safely down from the post, I checked the cat over for any bumps or scrapes, but as he seemed to be in good health, we released him back to his little ‘kingdom.’”

Andy Newton, an area manager for UK Power Networks, said: “It is rare for cats to get into this situation but my team were happy to play our part”

The trapped cat