The controversial Yulin Dog and Cat Meat Festival in China claims the lives of thousands of stray or stolen animals each year. 

This year, a small white cat was photographed climbing the side of the horrific slaughterhouse enclosure, while dozens of other felines sat in the overcrowded space.

However the Human Society International's rescue workers made sure that her life did not end there after spotting the cat named Huru. 

At the very last moment, they saved her life and a few other lucky cats and dogs. 

Huru has been cleaned up and is now recovering at the Washington Animal Rescue League. 

'What a difference a few weeks have made for this cat,' the rescue league wrote on Facebook.

'Huru was destined for a tragic end at the Yulin Dog and Cat Meat Festival in China. 

'Today, Huru has found a new life in the caring arms of the Washington Animal Rescue League.'

Huru will spend some time adjusting to her new life and then be looking for a loving family.

According to the Humane Society, as many as 10million dogs are killed for food annually in China, with up to 10,000 killed for the Yulin festival.

The 'festival' is held to mark the beginning of the summer solstice and was created in 2010 as a way for dog meat traders to boost their flagging business. 

Many of the dogs and cats slaughtered are stolen pets who are transported to the event site over several days, often without food and water, according to the Humane Society.  

(dailymail.co.uk)