By Alesha Capone
The RSPCA Victoria is investigating a “sickening act of animal cruelty” after a family’s pet cat was caught in an illegal trap in Werribee.
On or around April 14, a 12-year-old female tabby-coloured domestic cat named Abby went missing from her home in Greaves Street North.
Days later, Abby was found with her leg caught in an illegal trap, close to the street where her owners live.
Abby’s paw was mutilated and the limb broken.
The RSPCA Victoria said, in a statement, that Abby likely spent several days struggling to free herself from the trap.
“This beloved family pet suffered excruciating pain and distress prior to being located by a member of the public and taken to a veterinarian,” the statement said.
“Abby was weak and severely injured.”
Due to her injuries, Abby had to have her entire limb amputated.
Leghold traps, such as the one Abbey became caught in, are illegal and cause extreme pain and suffering to animals caught in them.
RSPCA Victoria inspectors have been canvassing the Werribee neighbourhood surrounding the area where Abby lives.
The inspectors have been asking the public to report if they know of people who set the illegal traps, or who have similar traps, in their possession.
Once identified, the person responsible for Abby getting caught in the trap could face prosecution and serious liability, including a term of up to two years’ imprisonment and fines of up to $82,610.
In February this year, the RSPCA Victoria also appealed for public information, after two black and white kittens were discovered on Bush Street, Manor Lakes.
One kitten was found with its ear sliced off and badly broken bones. Both kittens had severe feline parvovirus.
Anyone with information they believe may be relevant to either of these cases is encouraged to make a report via www.rspcavic.org/report or by calling 9224 2222.
