Rescue mission to save Peterborough moggy after it got stuck up a 30ft pole after being chased by dog

Though the call came in on April Fool’s Day, this was no joke. The cat was spotted at the top of the pole in Ramsey Road in Farcet. Local residents had seen a loose dog chasing the poor puss, prompting him 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 headed out to assist. He 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.”

Realising he’d need the help of experts, 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 local residents for many years. It seems he’s made a home for himself in outbuildings and seems to be very self-sufficient, 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 and assist with a quick and safe rescue to return the cat to ground level. All correct safety procedures were followed and the team was delighted to see the cat fit and well at the end of the job.”