Three fire crews were called to a "well developed" late-night fire which could have "easily spread" further.
Firefighters from Carlisle east, west and Longtown fire stations were scrambled to Petteril Street in Carlisle at about 12.30 in the early hours of Saturday morning.
A spokesman for Carlisle east fire station said: "On arrival, crews discovered a well developed fire downstairs in a large terraced house.
"Fortunately all occupants were out of the property when we arrived, as they were alerted to the blaze by the smoke alarms in the property.
"Crews rescued one cat from the fire, which was no worse for wear for its ordeal."
The spokesman added that the timely intervention from the three fire crews prevented what could have been a serious incident.
"This significant fire could have easily spread to adjacent properties," the spokesman said.
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