By Esther Lauaki
The RSPCA is calling on the public for information about an animal cruelty case in Manor Lakes involving two kittens. RSPCA inspector Sarah Gilbert said the two black and white kittens were discovered along Bush Street on February 5 – one with its ear sliced off and badly broken bones. Both kittens also had severe feline parvovirus. “Both animals were taken to a local veterinarian where they were receiving treatment,” Ms Gilbert said.
“It is believed that the perpetrator deliberately bound and soaked [one of ] the cats to cause it distress.” Despite efforts of cat rescue volunteers Rebecca Roberts and her team, who had been fostering the animals, one kitten died last week and the other continues to fight for life.
Ms Roberts said she was “completely heartbroken” by the case. “She fought hard but Parvo is a hideous disease and it was just too much for her little body,” she said. “Her brother is still fighting. “I cannot even express how much my heart breaks for these kittens. “In all my years in rescue, after everything I’ve seen and heard, I feel sick and completely devastated. “Not only did this beautiful little girl have to endure this disgusting act of cruelty we also couldn’t save her.”
“All of this could have been avoided. “I couldn’t even begin to try and understand the kind of person that would do this.” Ms Roberts said there is “no excuse to mistreat animals” and she encouraged pet owners to desex their cats. Rescue officers are canvassing the area where the kittens were found and appealing for anyone who witnessed suspicious activity along Bush Street on February 4, 5 or 6 to come forward. Anyone with information should call RSPCA inspector Sarah Gilbert on 4309 2558.
