Stray tabby's cuddles save baby's life

A stray cat is being hailed as a hero after saving an abandoned baby in the town of Obninsk near Moscow.

Masha the cat kept the baby warm by climbing into a cardboard box with him and meowing to attract residents' attention according to The Moscow Times.

Masha had also apparently 'consoled' and licked the baby.

The two month old baby had been left in the entrance to an apartment building, with little more than a jump suit, a packet of nappies and some baby food.

when an ambulance arrived to rush the baby off to a hospital, Masha followed the paramedics to "see him off".

Police are currently looking for the baby's parents.

Masha meanwhile is receiving treats in the form of her favourite foods from local residents.