THE RSPCA is warning Greater Manchester residents about the dangers of illegal gin traps after a cat had to have a leg amputated.

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

A female tabby cat got her caught in a gin trap in Rochdale on Sunday evening.

She received treatment at the Greater Manchester Animal Hospital as vets decided her leg needed amputating due to her injuries.

The device used in this incident is illegal to set and use, although not illegal for somebody to own or sell.

The RSPCA points out that devices can cause "immense suffering" to wildlife and pets and those who set a trap can be prosecuted.

The use of gin traps has been outlawed in the UK since 1958, but some are still being illegally used to catch animals such as rabbits and foxes.

Anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal faces a maximum £20k fine and/or six months in prison.