Cat stuck in nearly 50ft tree attacked by crows as it is rescued by Preston firefighters

Firefighters came to the aid of a cat who had managed to get stuck up a 49ft tree in Preston yesterday afternoon (May 17).

The cat was attacked by crows who were pecking at the poor animal during the rescue mission, making the recovery operation even more difficult.

After over an hour of trying to rescue the cat, it was finally saved by firefighters using an aerial ladder platform and an animal grasper.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue said: "Yes it really does still happen. Earlier this afternoon the wholetime crew at Preston Fire Station came to the aid of a cat stuck approx. 15 metres up a tree.

"An awkward rescue made harder with attack crows pecking at the poor cat.

"All made safer with use of the aerial ladder platform"

Although cats are naturally great climbers, with their curved claws designed to grasp onto the bark of a tree as they climb up, they were not designed to help them easily climb down.

Unlike squirrels, cats cannot descend head first. They must step backwards, as people would climb down a ladder, according to PetCoach.

That movement is harder to figure out, and faced with the fear of falling, your cat may find itself in a state of shock.

Here's how to rescue a cat stuck up a tree:

- Coax the Cat Down​

Your best hope is for the cat to climb down on its own.

Often it will, with a little time and space, and no distractions from other animals nearby.

Call up to your pet in a soothing voice and entice it with treats.

If that doesn’t work, leave a bowl of food at the bottom of the tree and step back.

- Provide Assistance

If the cat continues to stay put, you could try to be more proactive by helping it climb down the tree.

To guide the cat, aim a laser pointer at a spot on the tree it can see, and then move the point down the trunk to light a course.

You can also lean a ladder or big branch against the tree.

- Come to the Rescue

If those methods don’t work, you may consider going up to retrieve the cat.

A sturdy ladder is recommended, unless you’re an experienced tree climber.

- Call for Help

If all else fails, call in professional support.

Some experts say to wait 24 hours, but use your judgement.

If it’s cold, stormy, or the cat appears to be in distress, seek help.

To find out more about what to do if your cat gets stuck up a tree, click HERE.