A CAT needed its tail and an ear amputated after it was caught and tortured by thugs using cigarettes.
Leo the tabby cat has his tail completely removed after the cigarette burns became infected.
The cat was attacked in Neilston, East Renfrewshire, on January 13th.
A fundraising page has been set-up by the local community to pay for Leo’s veterinary bills – £2,000 and rising – after they learned about the disgusting crime.
Leo’s owner Pauline Shields is now campaigning to raise awareness of animal cruelty.
Photos of Leo show the burns and injuries that were inflicted on him by the thugs.
One photo shows Leo’s tail looking infected and shaved, another also shows Leo with a bloody ear where he had been assaulted.
Another photo shows Leo post amputation with stitches holding together Leo’s skin where his tail once was.
Other photos show Leo after his amputation with a brace around his neck.
Karen Aird responded online: “Can’t believe someone has done this. Hope he heals well, and hopefully someone will be charged for it.”
Stephanie Sulaiman wrote: “Aww the poor boy. So sorry his tail can’t be saved Pauline. Hopefully his ears will heal quickly.”
Richard Gormlie said: “Hope he recovers soon.”
Pauline said today: “It must be said that in the 20 years I can count between my neighbours, nothing like this has ever happened before. The villagers have been amazing. I don’t want anyone to think that this barbaric incident is something that is the norm here.”
Pauline has revealed that Leo’s veterinary bills are mounting.
She said: “His treatment so far has reached the £2000. I was struggling with funding Leo’s aftercare and medications so my lovely new friend Kimberley decided to help raise funds for him while I concentrate on looking after Leo and raising awareness for Cats Protection, SSPCA and animal cruelty in general.”
You can donate to Leo’s veterinary bills on the just giving link: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/leoshelpers?utm_term=9QJA6xD5d&fbclid=IwAR2TcYVvBuQLFqZvu4rgxnvb7xOAxcWKscJ9wmrwyC1lVSKS2TQFpU83Njo
