Missing Paignton cat put to sleep after torture attack

(Last Updated On: August 3, 2016)

A missing cat from Paignton was found seriously injured 9 days after it had gone missing from the Kings Ash area of the town.

Princess who was 18 months old had to be put down by vets due to the extent of her injuries which have been described as noose marks and acid burns.

We spoke to Debbie Johnson from Feline Cat Network who has been supporting the family.

“It started off on 14th July as another “our cat is missing” call, of which we get many. I gave out the usual information and advice, and requested if/when Princess was found, they inform us.

“However, what I was not expecting, was the distressed call I got about 9 days after this. Princess had been found, but the news was not good. She was discovered by a passer-by in Churston, in a gateway, in a terrible state. Given Princess came from the Kings Ash area, this was quite a distance.

“The lady who found her, took her to a vet, who discovered her microchip and phoned the owner with the news, and Lucy (owner) rushed back to find what had happened to her cat. Although we will never discover the full manner and extent of Princess ordeal, it was clear this was a prolonged and sustained attack of some kind, perpetrated by someone possibly over 3 or 4 days.

“Her face was eaten away – caused by some sort of corrosive agent, her whiskers were gone, ears burned, and she could not see nor open her eyes. Her fur was matted and she was covered in faeces. Her bottom was sore and fur from that area had been cut. There were other injuries too, including what might have been noose marks around her neck.

“I attended the vets on the 2nd visit with Lucy, and was shocked at what I saw. Princess was semi-conscious, and in distress, reaching out her foot and occasionally crying or screaming. After a short discussion, it was felt kinder to let her go. So we stayed with Princess as she left us,  her owner was beside herself with grief.

“We would like very much to know who did this, and why. There is a Gofundme appeal, to be able to offer a reward for information leading to an arrest or conviction. There are other cases emerging, and also many cats missing in the area. So please keep vigilant and know where your pets are.”

You can find the Gofundme page here: https://www.gofundme.com/2hhwmxw

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