AN RSPCA inspector has described how a cat was left with a “horrific” injury to its face which led to her being put to sleep.
Peter and Sylvia Snoep, of Keelers Way, Great Horkesley, admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a cat called Spangles by failing to provide veterinary treatment.
Spangles had a destructive and infiltrative lesion on her face as a result of cancer.
The couple were handed handed 12-week prison sentences suspended for 12 months.
They were also banned from owning or keeping animals for life.
Subsequently two animals were removed from their care.
<< This article contains images which some may find distressing >>
If either of them is found to keep any animal they will have it seized.
Each was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £128 and costs of £250.
RSPCA inspector Jessica Bush attended the couple’s home in February and took Spangles straight to a vet as she needed urgent treatment.
Inspector Bush said: “The open lesion on her face was horrific to see, it appeared the nose was missing, with the top lip exposing the teeth and the smell was unbearable. The cat was also sneezing and snuffling; it appeared she was struggling to breathe normally.
“She was also underweight and very hungry, however she struggled to pick up dry treats when given."
Spangles - who was around 17 or 18-years-old - was put to sleep on welfare grounds to prevent her suffering further.
In their report the vet said: “Spangles would have been unnecessarily suffering for a period of weeks to months. “During this time the owner would have noticed visibly obvious changes with Spangles and veterinary advice should have been sought. As the issue progressed further advice/treatment should have been sought. Because it wasn't, the owners have failed to meet her needs.”
Inspector Bush added: “We understand that people’s circumstances can sometimes make it difficult to care for their pets but as owners it is our responsibility to ensure that they are free from pain and discomfort and we have to make the right choices for them. Sadly poor Spangles was failed and as a result suffered unnecessarily.”
In mitigation the court heard there were personal circumstances from health conditions which had stopped them getting treatment for the cat.
It was also said the cat would wander a lot and so it was difficult to oversee and check on her.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel