Upset owner thought old cat had gone away to die

Following last week’s article about an 18-yearold cat which had to be euthanased due to its horrific condition, South Waikato SPCA has found the owner.

‘‘It could be a case for prosecution. I don’t think she (owner) realises that she could have an animal cruelty charge against her,’’ shelter manager Lorna Hutchinson said.

She also said the owner had looked for the cat and was upset to read about it in the South Waikato News last week.

‘‘They wanted it to die naturally but they were prolonging its suffering . . . They couldn’t find it. When it disappeared they thought it went away to die.’’

Mrs Hutchinson said the cat had long toe nails; an indication it did not go outside.

Subsequent discussions will determine possible action.

‘‘I have to go to the committee (South Waikato SPCA) and they will see what to take forward, and I will take it to the police,’’ she said.

The cat weighed less than one kilo was blind in both eyes with an ulcer in one, barely able to walk and had only six teeth.