SPIKE the cat is back home and on the mend after his story of survival provoked an international wave of help and support.

The eight-year-old pet escaped death by millimetres when a foot-long crossbow bolt was fired into his head.

Shocking pictures and x-rays showed how the bolt entered just above his nose and went through the roof of his mouth and out the other side.

Spike not only figured in the Star last week, but across the country and even in the US, where he was shown on coast-to-coast channel ABC.

Our readers showed their compassionate side by offering to dig their hands into their pockets to help Spike’s owner Sandra Grogan meet the cost of the increasing vet’s bills.

One of the first was pensioner Joan Gregory from Toll Bar, who made the trip across town to hand over a get well soon card and a cash donation.

Disabled mum of three Sandra, 51, said: “I can’t believe the kindness shown by people, such as this lady.

“We have had messages of support from places including America and Spain and Spike has more than 320 friends on his Facebook account (that we set up).”

Sandra said she is increasingly hopeful that Spike will make a full recovery, adding: “There has been a big improvement, but he’s not the same cat.”