Police hunt attacker after cats found mutilated

POLICE are investigating a spate of “shocking” attacks on cats that have had their ears cut off, as owners are warned to keep pets indoors.

Officers in Norwich received five reports of cats being mutilated in the past two weeks in the north of the city.

The first reported attack was on a cat called Bubba, on April 14, when it returned to its owner with its ears cut off, its fur removed, and cuts to its back.

A veterinary practice that treated a second cat with the same injuries concluded that it had been committed by a human rather than an animal.

On April 23, officers received a report that a man was seen putting a cat into a holdall bag. He was challenged by a member of the public before dropping the bag and running away.

The next day another member of the public called police to say she had seen a man swinging a cat by its tail against a garage. He then ran off with the cat.

On April 25 a veterinary practice in Taverham contacted officers to say a cat had been brought into the surgery with both of its ears cut off. The owner of the cat has yet to be traced. Pc Shaun Quinn, of Norfolk Police, said: “These are shocking incidents and we know they will cause some distress to members of the community.

“We are conducting enquiries and liaising with the RSPCA, as well as increasing patrols in the area. I would urge anyone who may have any information to contact police.”

Taverham Vets warned on Facebook: “We advise everyone to remain vigilant and keep cats indoors if you can. If you find an injured cat, seek treatment straight away.”