Terrified cat discovered in Crosshill after sickening firework attack

Nov 6 2009 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A CAT had a firework strapped to her back and set alight in a sickening attack.

The terrified cat suffered horrific burns and had to be put down.

She was in agony for up to a week before she was discovered near Dalduff Farm Shop at Crosshill.

Thugs responsible must have held the helpless tabby down while they tied an explosive to her little body.

Animal charity the SSPCA are now hunting the ruthless killers responsible for the brutal incident.

The owner of the pet has still not been identified, although she was micro-chipped.

However, details related to a previous owner, who is still unaware of what happened.

Kerry Miller was the horrified SSPCA ambulance driver who rushed the cat to the vet on Thursday, October 29.

Kerry said: “Workers at the farm had reported seeing the cat near the farm shop, and when I arrived it was clear that she was in extreme distress.

“I rushed her to the local vets in Maybole, but sadly the vet was unable to save her. The vet advised that she was likely to have had her injuries for up to a week, due to the state of the wounds, and that this was highly likely to have been caused by a firework, judging by the burn wounds on her back and additional wounds around her stomach.

“It’s heartbreaking to see an animal in such a terrible state. If it was indeed a firework that caused these injuries then we are dealing with a very serious crime.

“Why anyone would commit such a cruel and callous act on a defenceless little cat is beyond my understanding, and I’m sure most people will be disgusted.”

Anyone found guilty of causing an animal unnecessary suffering could expect to be banned from owning animals.

They could also face penalties of up to 12 months in prison, a £20,000 fine, or both.

Anyone with information relating to this incident should contact the SSPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.