A Sheffield cat owner claims to be the most recent victim of a cat shaving spree that has spread across the UK.
Melisa Woodhouse took to Facebook last week in search of answers when her cat returned home with her hind legs shaved.
Similar attacks happened last year to her beloved pet, Sibel, which Melissa reported to the police and RSPCA but no one could help or find the culprit.
Melissa said: “It’s so distressing. She’s not a cat who can be picked up so it would have taken more than 1 person to hold her down. In my eyes that’s animal cruelty.”
The attack happened in Gleadless Valley but when Melissa took to Facebook to share her concern she found people either blamed her for letting her cat out or made tasteless jokes.
The cat owner said: “She’s eight years old and has used a cat flap her whole life, if I kept her in I wouldn’t have a house left.
“Some of the other comments online are disgusting, it’s ridiculous. I’m scared it’s all going to end with me putting a missing cat sign up.”
Non-profit organisation Animals Lost and Found in Kent has mapped 117 different attacks spreading from Somerset to Scotland.
Natasha McPhee Director of the organisation said: “Unfortunately, we have no idea why anyone would do this.
“There was an elderly lady shaving cats that would come in to her garden but she was cautioned and stopped. I doubt she’s travelling the UK shaving cats.”
A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “We haven’t received any reports of these unusual and upsetting incidents in Sheffield but we hope the cats have recovered with their owners.
“Unfortunately, cats can be vulnerable because they go outside and explore.
“We would advise any owners whose cats have been affected to book an appointment with their vet. A veterinary examination will determine if that cat has experienced any physical injuries, such as cuts and abrasions from the shaving or other injuries as a result of being held down. Cat owners could also seek the advice of a behaviourist if they feel their cat is displaying signs of distress.
“There is never any excuse for harming any animal and we’d encourage people to show kindness, care and compassion to all animals and to report any concerns about animal cruelty.”
