Cat rescued after ordeal in empty house

A cat was trapped in an empty Wolverhampton house without food for at least two weeks after sneaking in when a workman arrived, RSPCA bosses revealed today.

Oliver the cat was left "frightened" and hungry after creeping into the house in Graiseley.

The RSPCA, which has now rescued the pet and is searching for its owner, was called by a member of the public who had seen the cat at the window of the empty home.

Insp Laura Bryant, from the animal charity, contacted the property's owner, who said it had been unoccupied for six months while renovation work was carried out.

Insp Bryant also saw the ginger cat in the window, but was unable to find it when she searched inside. It is believed he hid under floor boards and survived by drinking water from a toilet.

The officer left food and water for the cat, which was eventually caught last Wednesday using a humane trap.

He was taken to a vets for a health check and named Oliver after asking for more food.

Insp Bryant said: "I was thrilled to catch Oliver as we know he was alone for at least two weeks but he could have been there for much longer.

"He was extremely hungry but other than being underweight he appears well and healthy.

"Oliver is an affectionate cat although he is still frightened and not at present ready for rehoming.

"Staff are working with him to gain his trust.

"It could be that someone is missing their much loved cat but sadly as he was not microchipped we may never be able to reunite him with his owner."

The RSPCA is now caring for Oliver and his owner, or anyone interested in offering him a new home, has been asked to contact the charity on 07504 793 931.