RSPCA and police probe animal cruelty claims after Milly the cat suffers terrible burns

PET owners in one Hobart suburb are being advised to keep their animals inside after dark as the RSPCA and police investigate cruelty claims.

RSPCA inspector Ashlie Burnett shows Milly the cat’s injuries. Picture: RSPCA

BRIDGEWATER pet owners are being advised to keep their animals inside after dark as the RSPCA and Tasmania Police investigate cruelty claims.

A cat believed to have been deliberately set alight was surrendered to the animal welfare organisation on October 29 and authorities fear it is not an isolated incident.

Milly the cat not only survived her ordeal but gave birth to kittens on the day she moved into RSPCA Tasmania’s care.

Her kittens were just an hour old when she was given refuge.

Milly suffered burns to the back of her head and neck after an accelerant was apparently poured on her before she was set alight.

RSPCA chief vet Andrew Byrne feared Milly might lose an ear because of her injuries but she is healing well and now expected to make a full recovery.

The RSPCA and Tasmania Police are looking into allegations that other domestic animals in the Bridgewater area have been targeted in the same way.

“We have been in contact with Tasmania Police and are checking out information that this may not be a one-off incident,” RSPCA Tasmania inspector Ashlie Burnett said.

Milly’s kittens were just an hour old when she was given refuge by the RSPCA.

“Anecdotally, we are hearing that pet owners in the area are ensuring their pets are indoors of a night and this is a wise thing to do given the situation.”

RSPCA CEO Peter West said he was very disappointed by such cruelty.

“My biggest concern is that this may be a case, or even cases, where children or young people are the perpetrators of the cruelty,” Mr West said.

“We know that studies have shown that cruelty to animals in childhood can lead to anti-social behaviour later in life.

“Our vision is for a Tasmania where all animals are treated with respect and kindness and we hope the community can help us investigate this case and get help for the people who are doing this to vulnerable pets.”

Anyone with information can call the 24-hour animal cruelty hotline on 1300 139 947 or go to the RSPCA’s website and fill out a complaint form.

The organisation follows up all complaints, with all calls are treated with confidentiality.

As for Milly, she is set to go to a safe new home once her kittens are also old enough to be adopted.

Originally published as RSPCA and police probe animal cruelty claims after Milly the cat suffers terrible burns