Despite efforts to rescue the cat, however, the animal perished, he said.

After finally being awakened by the cat’s repeated pawing around 4 a.m., officials said, the occupants recognized that a fire had started. When heavy smoke blocked their way out, they retreated into the second-floor master bedroom, Piringer said.

They called 911 and a basement resident, who got out, found a painter’s ladder and raised it against the house to help the trapped occupants.

An effort was made to carry the cat to safety. But the animal “jumped out” of the arms of his would-be rescuer, Piringer said.

The cat went back inside and died from the smoke, the spokesman said. The animal was a hero, Piringer said.

The animal’s name and other details could not be learned immediately.

The blaze broke out on the first floor of the three-level townhouse, Piringer said, adding that it apparently was caused by a problem with a motor in a freezer and spread through the kitchen.