The cat's tale

The adventurous animal was found dirty and hungry in a greenhouse by a Baildon resident, but her microchip is registered to an owner 300 miles away in Chartham Down, near Canterbury.

Jessica's plight has baffled Guiseley-based Wharfe Valley Cats Protection which has drawn a blank on tracing the nine-year-old's owner.

One theory is that the adventurous pet hitched a lift up north in a van or other vehicle. Branch co-ordinator Graham Hoult says this is possible, and has even known cats to walk massive distances.

He said: "It is possible although it is usually male cats which tend to do this and only around one in 100 will travel a distance like that. I have known one to walk from Birmingham to London."

It could simply be that Jessica's owner moved from Canterbury some years ago and is living near where she was found and the cat is just lost.

Alternatively, her owner may have married and changed her name, which is why she cannot be traced, or Jessica may have a different owner in the Canterbury area.

Mr Hoult said: "We know so much but we need to find out much more. Miss Foster could be an elderly woman who has died or a young woman who has got married and changed name.

"We have rung around vets and done appeals, but this sort of thing happens a lot. Owners register with the microchip firms but then do not inform them if they move.

"With one in five cats now having microchips, it is vital they keep them updated."

If Jessica's owner cannot be found, then the charity will take care of her until a new family comes forward.

And Mr Hoult doesn't think it will be difficult to re-home Jessica.

He said: "She is a lovely, docile cat and a friendly, lap-sitting cat, anyone would be glad of her."

Jessica has been given a clean bill of health by Baildon Veterinary Centre, where she is currently being looked after.

Anyone who may know any information should contact Wharfe Valley Cats Protection on (01943) 876104.