Norfolk Escaped Savannah Cat Loses Paw After Two Months Surviving Outdoors

A Savannah cat that escaped captivity in Norfolk has undergone paw amputation following injuries sustained during two months roaming the countryside. The exotic feline, named Blaze, was discovered with a broken paw and chest wound containing metal fragments, raising questions about how the animal came to be harmed.

Discovery and Rescue

Blaze broke free from its home in the NR1 area of Norwich during May. The animal was first spotted on 23 June in a field between the A146 Loddon Road and Framingham Lane in Bramerton, approximately five miles from its owner's residence. Kevin Murphy, from Norfolk Wildlife Rescue, received multiple reports from residents over the following weeks, which aided the search effort. On 17 July, the cat was finally located sitting inside a plant pot in a couple's back garden, where Murphy was able to net and contain the frightened animal.

The rescue presented particular challenges because Blaze had previously escaped confinement and developed what Murphy described as "cage shy" behaviour, making the animal reluctant to enter enclosures. The breakthrough came through community reports, with neighbours alerting Murphy after spotting the cat. One resident even approached Murphy directly, asking if he was "the cat man," which led to the successful capture.

Injuries and Treatment

Upon examination, veterinarians at Taverham Vets identified severe damage to Blaze's front limb and a gash across its chest. Analysis revealed metal fragments embedded in the wound, suggesting the injuries resulted from a gunshot. The paw was described as "just hanging" and required surgical removal due to the extent of the damage. Despite the trauma, Murphy noted the cat remained "fine in every other respect" and appeared otherwise healthy aside from being noticeably thin.

Investigators have not yet determined the exact circumstances of the shooting. The incident occurred in farmland areas surrounding Bramerton, and authorities have not identified a suspect. Murphy speculated the weapon could have been a shotgun, air rifle, or other firearm, noting that the ricochet pattern of injuries suggested the shot may have struck the chest after hitting the paw, though definitive conclusions remain unknown.