A fox cub which had been blinded by cataracts has its sight restored by Seadown Vets after being rescued by Fox Angels

A FOX cub blinded by cataracts has had its sight restored after undergoing a delicate operation at Seadown Vets in the New Forest.

It is believed to be the first time ever the operation has been performed on a fox in the UK.

The animal had been discovered by members of the public “cowering in a corner” looking ill and anxious in Twickenham, London.

Charity Fox Angels, which cares for the wild animals, was called, and their team managed to locate the creature and catch it.

When examined by vets, the six-month-old cub was found to have severe cataracts and could not see.

A spokesperson from Seadown said: “The young fox had no energy, showed no emotion and simply lay lifeless as people went about their busy lives.”

Without treatment, the fox was unlikely to live very long due to it not being able to hunt for food or avoid danger.

Ophthalmology vet Anna Jennings, clinical director at Seadown, told how the fox, which was named Ricky, was very “subdued” when he arrived.

She said: “It was the first time Kate McMorris, our vet and ophthalmic surgeon, had operated on a fox. All went well and then drops had to be given to both eyes before and after the operation.

“Ricky now appears to be seeing.”

Steve Mason from the charity said: “The red fox in the UK has been persecuted and mistreated for many decades and they are losing their natural habitat very quickly.

“We now see a lot more foxes moving into urban areas, and because of this there are many more road casualties and injuries to these beautiful creatures. Many are left to die a lingering death If not treated quickly.

“We are so grateful to members of the public and those living in Twickenham who called to let us know about dear Ricky. We really appreciate the kindness and wonderful treatment he has received at Seadown.

“They have been amazing. Ricky really has been given a second chance at life and it’s brilliant to watch him engaging with the world around him now that he can see.

“Ricky has since been re-examined twice and appears to be seeing well. He is much more keen to get outside, even playing with a ball, which has been wonderful to see.”

To donate to Fox Angels visit: https: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/steve-mason?utm_term=G4rNRVNnK