THE quick actions of a Wirral RSPCA animal rescuer saved a cat from choking to death after getting wrapped up in some wire fencing.

Anthony Joynes' mission began after a woman spotted the cat in trouble in her garden in Woolton Road, Liverpool.

Unable to free the pet, she contacted the animal welfare charity.

Anthony ran from his van to the back garden and using wire cutters immediately went to work to free the cat, who was struggling as the wire was getting tighter around her neck.

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Anthony (pictured with the rescued cat) said: "It appears there was some old chicken wire fencing in a hedgerow which the cat got entangled in.

"She had it around her front paw and round her neck - so as she struggled to free herself the wire was getting tighter and she was choking.

"She was a few minutes away from death so I had to work quickly to free the pet and I am pleased to say - although shaken by her ordeal - she was unscathed.

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Anthony continued: "She was originally unsteady on her feet and I was worried about any effects of oxygen deprivation.

"But by the time I got her to the vets she was so much happier. 

"She was the most friendly and grateful cat I’ve rescued in 12 years and she began purring the moment I pulled her free from the wire.

"But this just shows how dangerous wire fencing can be and we would urge people to take extra care when installing fencing or security measures and to avoid using wire where possible, particularly if it is located somewhere where animals may become trapped easily."

The cat, which was rescued on Tuesday, was taken to the RSPCA’s Wirral and Chester branch in Upton until her owner was found.

A woman came forward following a social media appeal to take back her pet cat, who is called Asia and is aged 17.

Anthony added: "Asia was delighted to be reunited with her grateful owner and she has told me she is getting treated to chicken and cuddles to help her recuperate."

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit the charity's website or call its donation line on 0300 123 8181.