MIRACLE pet Maximus could be named top cat after fighting back from near-fatal injuries.

The Fife feline was found outside his Inverkeithing home by a neighbour after a suspected strike by a car earlier this year.

The incident cost him one eye and left him with several skull fractures and a split jaw.

Now the “fighter” is the sole Scottish animal pal in the running for PDSA Pet Survivor of the Year after undergoing intensive treatment, including the insertion of pins and wires to reset his bones.

The National:

Maximus with owner Sharon Trotter's son Cory

Owner Sharon Trotter said: “He needed tube feeding every four hours, and his wounds had to be cleaned and redressed every day. This went on for over six weeks, but Maximus took it all in his stride. He had such a quiet resolve it was an inspiration.”

Vet Erin Logan, of Inglis Vet Centre in Dunfermline, said: “Maximus’s recovery left us in awe of the healing abilities of nature and just what is truly possible with resilience, character and the determination to survive – he could teach us all lessons about life in adversity.”

Other contenders in the UK-wide competition include Staffie Brandy, who had a stick lodged through her throat and chest while playing, cat Dexter, who was shot through the mouth with an airgun, and moggie Skittles, who was found impaled on railings.

Voting is open online at www.pdsa.org.uk/petsurvivor2018 and the winner, who will receive a luxury pet hamper and trophy, will be announced before Christmas.