A CAT is set to lose one of its legs after it became clamped in the jaws of an illegal trap. 

The RSPCA said the animal's limb must now be amputated, though it was lucky to have survived the 'cruel' ordeal at all.

A resident discovered the black and white male creature 'in agony' in a metal gin trap in Witney on Monday.

He was found shortly before 8am in Lancut Road and taken to a nearby vet, where his shattered leg was freed. 

The cat was not microchipped so the animal charity has so far been unable to track down its owner.

RSPCA inspector Andy Eddy said: “This poor cat was understandably in agony when he was found. One of his front legs was still caught between the metal teeth of the trap, but his other front leg was also hurt as well. He also had blood on his mouth.

“The injuries he suffered were so severe that he will have to have the leg amputated. He is lucky to still be alive. 

“Traps like these are both cruel and indiscriminate. Once they’re set, there is nothing stopping them from catching any type of animal that steps in its path, whether that is a wildlife or a domestic pet.

“If anyone has any information about who this cat belongs to we are keen to get in touch to let them know what has happened and update them on his condition.”

The black cat is described as a young adult male, with a patch of white fur on his chest up that runs up to his nose.

Anyone with information can call the RSCPA inspector 0300 123 8018.

Gin traps are designed to catch an animal by the leg, using spring-operated jaws with teeth or a serrated edge.

It has been illegal to set the traps in the UK since 1958, though it is still legal to own, buy or sell them as a collectable item.