The Great Outdoors? Not for Cats!
Some animal shelters manipulate their euthanasia statistics by instituting policies that leave animals to struggle for survival and die painfully on the streets. So-called “trap-neuter-release” (TNR) programs—or, more accurately, “trap-neuter-reabandon” programs—may allow limited-admission shelters to spin their intake and euthanasia numbers, but they do nothing to protect cats from the horrors that befall them when left outdoors to battle harsh surroundings, sickness, and sadistic people.
Countless cats who are left outdoors without protection die from infected wounds and injuries, as even small abscesses and common urinary tract infections can become raging and deadly for unsocialized cats who cannot be handled and treated. Cats outdoors are vulnerable to contagious diseases, parasite infestations, starvation, dehydration, freezing, heatstroke, attacks by dogs and other predators, and being hit by vehicles. Cruel people often poison, shoot, burn, drown, or otherwise torture and kill cats.
Right or wrong, many property and business owners do not want cats on their property. Not everyone loves cats or wants them climbing on their cars, maiming or killing birds, or digging in their gardens. When animal shelters refuse to accept cats (as more and more so-called “no kill” facilities are doing), property owners often take matters into their own hands and resort to cruelty, both intentional and unintentional.
So many people become upset by roaming cats that legislation was introduced in Wisconsin and Utah to make it legal to stalk, hunt, and kill domestic cats! The bills failed, thanks to an outcry from animal activists and compassionate citizens, but that these bills were introduced at all should serve as a wake-up call for those who claim to care about cats—they are not safe outdoors.
Because of the many deadly hazards that cats face outdoors, responsible guardians allow their feline companions outdoors only when on a leash, in an enclosed area (such as a screened porch), or closely supervised.
Below is just a sampling of some of the horrible fates that have recently befallen stray, feral, and free-roaming cats. Countless others have died frightened and alone under porches or behind dumpsters, without anyone ever noticing what became of them.
December 2025 Media Reports Exposing How Cats Suffer and Die Outdoors
Cocoa, Florida
FOX35Orlando.com reported that on November 3, authorities had received a report about a homeless cat, described as “a neighborhood cat,” who had been shot. According to the report, “A concerned citizen called and said they thought their neighbor just shot a cat and had [captured] some of the alleged shooting on their front door camera. The cat ran away. Neighbors started searching for him for weeks, but couldn’t find him.” The cat was eventually found on November 22, “injured and with an infection from the gunshot wound. Bullet fragments were found in his leg. Vets had to amputate the cat’s leg, but he survived.” A suspect was arrested and allegedly told authorities that the cat had been damaging his vehicle. He was charged with cruelty to animals “and unlawful discharge of a firearm.”
Sierra Vista, Arizona
MyHeraldReview.com reported that a homeless cat who’d been fed at an apartment complex had been trapped underground in a drainage pipe for at least three days. Authorities and workers with a plumbing company were eventually able to rescue the animal, who was taken to a veterinary hospital for care and was evidently expected to survive.
Berks County, Pennsylvania
PennLive.com reported that a homeless cat described as “a neighborhood cat” had attacked three people before she was shot to death by one of the victims. According to the report, because the county lacks needed resources, the person who shot the cat also removed the animal’s head so it could be tested for rabies. Tests came back positive. One of the people who was bitten did not have health insurance and was billed $21,000 for needed post-exposure rabies treatment. She said, “It took hours to figure out where to take the cat, and the only option was an hour away and behead [the animal] yourself.”
Vancouver, Washington
KATU.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been stuck on top of a transmission pole for six days during a period of “heavy rain and wind as an atmospheric river battered the region.” A utility company crew was able to rescue the animal. No additional information was available.
New York, New York
Connecticut.News12.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by a dog, who was also apparently roaming without supervision. The attack was captured on surveillance footage. A neighbor said that his cat, who was also allowed to roam outdoors without supervision, had returned home with a broken leg. The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital, where a veterinarian allegedly “confirmed his cat had likely [also] been attacked” by a dog. When authorities were contacted, they reportedly said it was a civil matter.
Lincoln, Maine
BangorDailyNews.com reported that a cat who had slipped out of her home had been stuck 95 feet up a tree for two days. When a firefighter rescued her, it was found that the cat’s tail had frozen onto a branch in the frigid temperatures. She was reunited with her guardian and was expected to survive.
Brevard County, Florida
FOX35Orlando.com reported that a homeless cat had been found with a badly injured eye. She was taken to an animal shelter, which transferred her to an animal adoption group. According to the report, “Veterinarians started surgery on her face immediately and discovered bullet fragments lodged in her small head. At only eight months, the kitten went through five surgeries on her eye and in her mouth to remove all the pieces of bullets.” One of the animal’s eyes had to be removed. She was evidently expected to survive. It wasn’t reported whether authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Bradford County, Florida
FirstCoastNews.com reported that a cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
San Antonio, Texas
KENS5.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked by two dogs, who were also roaming unsupervised. The cat’s owner reportedly told authorities that “the dogs had … attacked her cat, [who] required treatment at an animal hospital and later died from … injuries” sustained. Responding police officers fatally shot one of the dogs. Animal control authorities impounded the second dog.
Ypsilanti, Michigan
CBSNews.com reported that a man had been charged with cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot a homeless cat numerous times with a BB gun the previous year. According to the report, the animal had been found injured and was taken to an animal adoption group, where she received treatment and survived.
Dixon, Missouri
KRCGTV.com reported that the Dixon Police Department had shared a social media post by a resident who had found an injured homeless cat with a 5-inch razor dart embedded in his or her back. The resident said that they removed the dart from the injured animal, who then ran off. The animal’s whereabouts were unknown. The post included a photo of the dart, which had blood, skin, and fur on it. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Chesapeake, Virginia
VDH.Virginia.gov reported that an employee of a local business had been bitten by a homeless “kitten while attempting to render medical assistance” to the animal. After finding the kitten at or near the business, the employee reportedly took the animal home and was attacked “several weeks” later. The kitten, who died or was euthanized, tested positive for rabies. The individual who was bitten was receiving post-exposure treatment.
Watsontown, Pennsylvania
Standard-Journal.com reported that a man had been charged with cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. According to the report, the cat was taken to a veterinary hospital after his or her owner found the animal “with blood coming from [his or her] left ear, and an injury on [the animal’s] side.” An investigator said in court documents that the cat had to have a bullet fragment removed and had sustained severe injuries, including one that required the amputation of a leg. The suspect allegedly told an investigator that “he saw the cat under the bird feeder in his backyard and shot the animal.” The suspect also produced a .22 rifle.
Dennis, Massachusetts
CapeCod.com reported that authorities were investigating after a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found injured, apparently by gunshot. No additional information was available.
Erie, Pennsylvania
ErieNewsNow.com reported that a homeless cat had been found severely ill and suffering from frostbite. She was evidently taken to an animal adoption group for care. YourErie.com later reported that the cat, who was described as “skin and bone” and suffering from a respiratory infection and frostbite, had died.
Gaston County, North Carolina
Yahoo.com reported that an unspecified number of kittens who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked by a skunk who later tested positive for rabies. One of the kittens was killed in the attack and another was taken to a veterinary hospital, where he or she later exhibited signs of rabies and was euthanized. Testing revealed that the injured kitten had been rabid. Additional kittens who had been exposed to the virus were to be quarantined for four months in accordance with state law. GastonGazette.com later reported that authorities had received “a call about a stray cat with a puncture wound on Friday, Dec. 19.” The cat exhibited signs of rabies, including “loss of appetite, not drinking and loss of limb functions.” The animal was contained and euthanized. Testing revealed that he or she had also been rabid.
Ulster County, New York
HudsonValleyCountry.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found dead with his or her paws taped together. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified. No additional information was available.
Androscoggin County, Maine
TheMaineWire.com reported that a man who had been “charged with fatally shooting a cat says he did so because the animal was clearly suffering from grievous injuries after apparently getting hit by a car.” In an interview, the man said that he’d “found the critically injured cat under his mailbox, crying and in pain. The cat was trying to walk but [his or her] hind end was paralyzed …. A portion of the cat’s hind quarter ‘was totally blown out’ from [the animal] getting hit by a car, he said.” He said he called authorities to have the cat collected, but “after not seeing animal control authorities coming, ‘I decided I had to put the cat out of [his or her] misery,’ so he shot and killed [the animal].” He was charged with cruelty to animals.
Erath County, Texas
BigCountryHomepage.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. One human and a dog were exposed to the virus through contact with the cat. No additional information was available.
Fairhaven, Massachusetts
FUN107.com reported that after a homeless kitten had been hit by a car, he or she was seen limping and then sought safety under a resident’s porch. Authorities were called after the kitten became wedged between a post and a lattice panel under the porch. A responding officer was able to extricate the kitten, who was transported to a veterinary hospital for “immediate care.” No additional information was available.
Alexandria, Virginia
FairfaxCounty.gov reported that a sick homeless cat had “attacked multiple people” and other animals before authorities captured him. The cat was evidently euthanized and tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
San Antonio, Texas
KENS5.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found with a blow dart lodged in his or her body. The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital, where he or she “underwent emergency surgery for injuries to [the animal’s] spine and lung.” Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Jonesborough, Tennessee
TimesNews.net reported that authorities had rescued a homeless cat after she was found frozen onto a sewer cover. A police spokesperson said that a responding “officer and a bystander were able to move the manhole to the grass with the cat still frozen to it.” Warm water was used to extricate the cat, who was taken to an animal shelter for care. A shelter spokesperson said the cat was receiving medical care and that “the cat’s injuries were primarily related to exposure.” She was evidently expected to survive.
Volusia County, Florida
News-JournalOnline.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Mobile, Alabama
WKRG.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked by a dog who was also roaming unsupervised. The cat’s owner was indoors and went outside to try to stop the attack but said that the dog wouldn’t let go of the cat and that she “knew [the cat] was going to die. I decided it was best to just let him die without me.” Authorities were apparently investigating.
Media Reports About Cats Outdoors Who Came to Harm in November 2025
Ocala, Florida
WCJB.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Baltimore, Maryland
FOXBaltimore.com reported that authorities were investigating after an apparently homeless kitten had been found dead with his or her “limbs cut off.” No additional information was available.
Lebanon County, Pennsylvania
WGAL.com reported that authorities had charged a man with cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot a homeless cat with a BB gun. According to the report, “Police say the cat needed to be euthanized because of the injuries” he or she had sustained. No additional information was available.
Laurens County, South Carolina
GoLaurens.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. Six humans who were exposed to the virus through contact with the cat required post-exposure treatment. Two dogs who were also exposed to the virus were to be quarantined in accordance with state law. Another homeless cat in the area was captured and euthanized as a precaution.
Dallas, Texas
WFAA.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been hit and killed by a car.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
PittNews.com reported that two cats who had been allowed to roam outdoors without supervision by the same owner had been hit and killed by cars within a period of a couple of months.
Laredo, Texas
LMTOnline.com reported that authorities had arrested a 15-year-old boy after he allegedly kicked a homeless cat who was in the middle of a street. According to the report, the boy was filmed attacking the animal in a video that went viral. He was charged with cruelty to animals. No information was available about what happened to the cat.
City of Watertown, New York
JeffersonCountyNY.gov reported that a homeless cat had been “found injured with visible wounds.” A member of the public reportedly took the cat to a veterinary hospital for treatment. According to the report, “Weeks later, the cat developed neurological symptoms consistent with rabies infection and was taken back to the veterinarian where [his or her] health further deteriorated, and [the animal] was euthanized.” Testing revealed that the cat had been rabid. Two humans who were exposed to the virus required post-exposure treatment.
Thurmont, Maryland
WFMD.com reported that after a sick homeless kitten had been taken to a veterinary hospital, he or she had died or been euthanized and tested positive for rabies. Authorities had captured three of the kittens’ littermates and were searching for the mother cat and another kitten who had been exposed to the virus. No additional information was available.
Mission, Texas
ValleyCentral.com reported that authorities had charged a man with cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot a neighbor’s cat, who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision, with a BB gun. According to the report, a criminal complaint revealed that the cat’s owner told authorities that during a conversation, the suspect had “mentioned that he shoots cats and birds in the area because ‘they damage his vehicles.’” The cat was found injured and taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that a pellet had entered the animal’s eye and exited “the back of his skull.” He was apparently receiving treatment.
Charlottesville, Virginia
Charlottesville.gov reported that a homeless cat had been seen “exhibiting aggressive behavior” along a walking trail. Authorities were able to contain the animal, who was apparently euthanized and tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Richland County, South Carolina
WISTV.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. According to the report, “Six people were confirmed to have been exposed to the cat and were referred to their health providers for additional testing and potential treatment.” No additional information was available.
Waterbury, Connecticut
StamfordAdvocate.com reported that a homeless cat who was being fed by area residents had been found with a plastic zip tie tightened around his or her abdomen. The animal was apparently taken to an animal adoption group and described as “very skinny.” Authorities were reportedly working to capture another homeless cat in the same area. No additional information was available.
Iowa City, Iowa
CBS2Iowa.com reported that authorities were investigating after a resident reported that he or she had been bitten while trying to free a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision from a glue trap. The animal had become stuck on the trap, which was set in the resident’s garage. After the bite, the cat reportedly ran off “with the glue trap still attached.” No additional information was available.
Dauphin County, Pennsylvania
ABC27.com reported that a homeless cat had been found with a dart protruding from his head. An animal adoption group was called and was able to collect the animal. A spokesperson for the group said that “the dart went into his ear, straight through his ear, above the top of his head, and out the other side, which left this piece hanging directly outside of his ear, pushed right up against his head.” He was receiving veterinary care and was evidently expected to survive. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Hornell, New York
HornellSun.com reported that authorities had contacted an animal adoption group after “witnesses observed someone carrying [an apparently homeless] cat in a grocery bag, slam the bag with the cat in it to the ground, and walk away.” The cat sustained severe injuries, including “a fracture of his left femur at the hip and multiple traumas causing blood in his chest and urine,” according to the group. The cat was taken to a veterinary hospital and was receiving treatment. According to a later report, authorities had arrested a suspect in the case.
San Antonio, Texas
KSAT.com reported that authorities were “searching for a man seen strangling [an apparently homeless] kitten on a surveillance camera” at an apartment complex. According to authorities, the suspect “was captured on surveillance footage chasing a kitten, appearing to strangle [the animal] to death.” No additional information was available.
Augusta, Georgia
WRDW.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. According to the report, “The cat was found during an incident involving a Richmond County resident, according to officials.” No additional information was available.
Sarasota, Florida
TheBradentonTimes.com reported that a man had been convicted of cruelty to animals for shooting a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision the previous year. According to the report, “the cat’s owner testified that she saw the cat on her neighbor’s property before [the animal] fell dead in the street.” The defendant said that he’d shot the cat because he’d been “struggling with a feral cat problem in the neighborhood” and had sustained damages at his business.
Jamestown, California
MyMotherLode.com reported that a homeless cat had been found “barely alive” and badly burned after a wildfire. According to the report, the cat “had his paws charred and ears and whiskers singed away while attempting to escape the flames and has received weeks of intensive care” at an animal shelter. Workers reportedly “said that following the fire, the cat endured painful daily rewashing and bandaging of his paws.” He was evidently expected to survive.
San Francisco, California
MissionLocal.org reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had died after he was run over by an autonomous vehicle.
Platte County, Wyoming
CowboyStateDaily.com reported that a homeless cat had been found with a wound in his side at a location where someone had been feeding homeless cats. Another cat at the site was seen limping. The two animals were captured and taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that one of them had “a bullet in his shoulder and a blow dart” that was embedded deep in his body. The dart was approximately 5 inches long and had broken some of the animal’s ribs, “nicked his heart and just missed his lungs.” He underwent surgery to remove the dart, but the bullet “was too dangerous to remove, so it was left behind, a wound that will probably always cause a little pain for the cat and may lead to early arthritis.” He was evidently expected to survive. No additional information was available about the cat who was found limping. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Plum Borough, Pennsylvania
CBSNews.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found dead. According to the report, the cat’s owner said “he thought his cat had been hit by a car, but then he found what was clearly a hole in his cat. ‘I felt around on the other side and felt like a pellet or a BB inside of him, so that I knew he was shot,’” he said. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Los Osos, California
KSBY.com reported that after a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had returned home, her owner said “the animal fell off the couch and was unable to use her back legs.” She was taken to a veterinary hospital, where a .22 caliber bullet was reportedly “found lodged in her back leg with an entry wound near her abdomen.” She was receiving treatment and was apparently expected to survive. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Bagdad, Florida
WEARTV.com reported that at least eight homeless cats described as “neighborhood cats” had died from suspected poisoning. Other homeless cats had been found sick and “foaming at the mouth.” A resident who’d fed cats in the area reportedly said that one of them had been found dead “with bubbles around his mouth.” Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Weatherford, Oklahoma
KOKO.com reported that two homeless cats had been found dead. According to the report, “A veterinarian determined they had ingested antifreeze, and since then, several other cats have died, possibly from the same cause.” Two days later, another homeless cat had been found dead, “but investigators concluded that the cat involved was attacked by another animal, and the two incidents are not connected.” Authorities were asking “anyone with information on how animals might be accessing antifreeze to contact” them. A later report revealed that authorities had determined that the animals had died from contagious diseases. Test results from a necropsy conducted on one of the deceased cats reportedly “showed that the cat had multiple respiratory viruses.” According to the report, “The cat [who] underwent a postmortem exam had symptoms consistent with the previously sick and deceased cats found throughout the city. [He or she] died at a veterinary clinic.”
Media Reports About Cats Outdoors Who Came to Harm in October 2025
Lowville, New York
FlackBroadcasting.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. According to the report, “a vaccinated dog and an unvaccinated cat were exposed. As a result, the dog got a rabies booster, while the cat was euthanized.”
Cornelia, Georgia
NowHabersham.com reported that a homeless cat had bitten a resident. Responding authorities were able to capture the cat, who was described as exhibiting “clear signs of rabies.” The animal was euthanized and tested positive for the virus. No additional information was available.
Decatur, Illinois
WCIA.com reported that authorities had charged a man with aggravated cruelty to animals, among other charges, after he allegedly abused and killed an apparently homeless cat. According to the report, a witness said they’d seen the suspect with a live cat before authorities found him with a cat who appeared to be dead. The suspect was reportedly “swinging [the cat’s body] around” and “twirling it above his head.” The suspect also tried to burn the cat’s face with a blowtorch-style lighter. According to authorities, the animal’s body “had visible external injuries as well as a white fabric tied around [the] neck.” The suspect was taken into custody, and a necropsy was ordered on the cat’s remains.
Suffolk County, New York
LongIslandNews12.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Canyon, Texas
ABC7Amarillo.com reported that authorities had arrested a man who was “accused of shooting three cats with a blow dart, killing one of them.” According to the report, authorities responded to a call about a cat with a head injury but were unable to find the animal. Three days later, they received another call and “found the cat with a blow dart embedded several inches into [his or her] skull.” The animal “did not survive.” A report was received about two additional cats who had been shot with blow darts, and tips led to the arrest of a suspect. He was charged with cruelty to animals.
Panola County, Texas
CBS19.tv reported that a homeless cat had been found on a road exhibiting symptoms of rabies. Authorities contained the animal, who was euthanized and sent to state health authorities for testing. No additional information was available.
Warren County, New Jersey
NYPost.com reported that an elderly couple had been badly injured after they were attacked by a homeless cat they’d been feeding. Responding authorities were able to capture the animal, who was found to be suffering from severe injuries, including a broken leg and injuries to the face that exposed his or her nasal cavity. Authorities believed the cat may have been attacked by another animal. The cat was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. The couple received care for wounds and post-exposure rabies treatment at an area hospital.
Jackson, Mississippi
WAPT.com reported that a homeless kitten had been found injured inside the engine compartment of a vehicle after the car’s owner started the engine. Individuals with an animal adoption group reportedly “spent hours” extricating the kitten from the engine after he was injured. A spokesperson for the group said that a piece of the kitten’s spine had been “lost” and that his skin had been “ripped down to muscle, leaving him tailless.” He apparently received treatment and was expected to survive.
Cherryville, North Carolina
QCNews.com reported that a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by a rabid skunk. According to the report, “several cats had potentially been exposed” to the virus through contact with the skunk. The surviving cats were being quarantined at a veterinary hospital for four months in accordance with state law.
Polk County, Florida
TampaFP.com reported that a sick homeless cat had been taken to a veterinary hospital by a resident. According to the report, “A vet technician was bitten by the cat, and the woman who transported the animal also sustained two scratches.” The cat died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. The individuals who were exposed to the virus were “advised to seek immediate medical treatment to prevent the onset of rabies, which is nearly 100% fatal once symptoms appear.”
Candor, North Carolina
MontgomeryHerald.com reported that during a town board meeting, a resident told commissioners that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and badly injured by two dogs, who were homeless or also roaming unsupervised. The cat was reportedly taken to a veterinary hospital and required treatment for “several days.” No additional information was available.
Norfolk, Virginia
13NewsNow.com reported that a homeless cat had been found acting aggressively. Responding authorities were able to capture the cat, who was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Wythe County, Virginia
WFXRTV.com reported that a homeless cat found in a barn had attacked two dogs and their guardian. The cat died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Elmhurst, Illinois
Patch.com reported that authorities had been contacted by a resident who reported that her dog had attacked and killed a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. According to the report, “An officer was unable to find the cat’s owner.” No additional information was available.
Washington County, Pennsylvania
CBSNews.com reported that a homeless kitten had been found and taken to an animal adoption group. The animal was euthanized after “develop[ing] severe neurological symptoms.” Testing revealed that the kitten had been rabid. No additional information was available.
Fremont, Ohio
SanduskyRegister.com reported that authorities had arrested a man after he allegedly shot an apparently homeless cat to death. According to the report, the suspect’s indictment “alleged [that the] crimes occurred in early December 2024.” The shooting was allegedly captured by a neighbor’s surveillance camera. The cat’s body was found and submitted for a necropsy, which determined that the animal had sustained “multiple penetrative wounds on the neck, shoulder and pelvis” and that he or she “suffered from severe muscular trauma and multiple fractures in [the cat’s] vertebrae, humerus, pelvis and tail.” A hearing date was scheduled in the case.
Dinwiddie County, Virginia
WRIC.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Davidson County, North Carolina
The-Dispatch.com reported that authorities had arrested a man after he allegedly shot an apparently homeless cat with a bow and arrow. Authorities said they’d opened an investigation after receiving “several reports requesting a welfare check on one or more cats [who] may have been shot with a bow and arrow.” Responding deputies reportedly “found a cat with an injury apparently caused by an arrow. The cat was immediately taken to a veterinary hospital.” The suspect was charged with cruelty to animals among other charges.
Spencerport, New York
FireRescue1.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had to be euthanized after he or she had become stuck in a tree. Responding to a call from the cat’s owner, firefighters apparently used a high-powered hose to spray the animal out of the tree. According to the report, “A bystander video showed the cat being tossed from the tree by firefighters with a hose line. Firefighters were staged near the tree, ready to catch the cat, but [the animal] hit the ground.” A spokesperson for the fire district said that “the firefighters’ actions ‘were not appropriate’” and that the department was “updating its standard operating guidelines.”
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
WDAM.com reported that “multiple cats” who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by a pack of dogs who were homeless or also roaming unsupervised. A resident reportedly witnessed one of the attacks, and others had found cats dead. Authorities were working to capture the dogs.
Laurens County, South Carolina
GoLaurens.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been exposed to rabies through contact with a raccoon who tested positive for the virus. The cat was to be quarantined in accordance with state law.
Sherrills Ford, North Carolina
WCNC.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
South Brunswick, New Jersey
Patch.com reported that a sick homeless cat had been found by a resident. The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital, where he or she was euthanized. Authorities sent the remains for testing, which revealed that the cat had been rabid. It was later reported that an apparently homeless cat in East Brunswick had also died or been euthanized and tested positive for the virus. No additional information was available.
Cases That Made the News Concerning Cats Left Outdoors to Suffer and Die in September 2025
Landis, North Carolina
WSOCTV.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Nimmons, Arkansas
KAIT8.com reported that a resident said that over the past year, a pack of homeless dogs had attacked and “killed over 12 cats” who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. No additional information was available.
Bellevue, Nebraska
WOWT.com reported that authorities were investigating after an unspecified number of cats who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found dead in part of the city. No additional information was available.
Davidson County, North Carolina
ABC45.com reported that a resident who had been feeding multiple homeless cats had called authorities when one of them was “seen with a leg wound [and] began displaying unusual behavior.” The cat was captured and evidently euthanized before testing positive for rabies. According to the report, “All individuals potentially exposed to the cat” had been referred to their healthcare providers for post-exposure treatment. Authorities were working to capture the remaining cats “due to the high risk of rabies exposure.”
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
WestPhillyLocal.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found “fighting with” a raccoon. A roommate of the cat’s owner intervened and was bitten by one of the animals. They went to an emergency room, where, according to the report, “[t]he ER doctor, who treated the injured resident, believes the raccoon may be rabid, based on the description of the event. The cat was taken to the vet.” No additional information was available.
Hartsville, Tennessee
WSMV.com reported that a homeless kitten had been “found covered in ash and with burns” near the site of a nuclear cooling tower implosion. The feline was taken to an animal adoption group for care. No additional information was available.
Fresno, California
KMPH.com reported that a homeless cat had been found with a “steel-tipped blow dart embedded in [his or her] ear.” According to the report, “The dart was then later noticed to have become imbedded into the cat’s cheek and head. The dart, which is illegal in California, has further penetrated the cat’s neck and shoulder area, requiring urgent medical attention.” No additional information was available.
Toledo, Ohio
13ABC.com reported that a homeless cat who was described as one of several “neighborhood cats” had been shot with an arrow. According to the report, a woman who had regularly fed the cat was “sitting in her kitchen” when she heard the animal screaming outside. When the cat was found, she was “lying in the bushes with an arrow shot through her legs.” She was taken to a veterinary hospital, where she was euthanized after it was found that the arrow “had gone through the bone in the back two legs.” A neighbor who wouldn’t talk to police without the presence of an attorney reportedly told authorities that “he has had issues with cats and raccoons damaging his property and urinating on his stuff.” An investigation was ongoing.
Kansas City, Missouri
KMBC.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been taken to a veterinary hospital after he was found “with a badly damaged front leg.” A spokesperson for the hospital said that the cat had been shot and that his leg had to be amputated. A pellet had reportedly been recovered from the leg. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Crestview, Florida
CrestviewBulletin.com reported that authorities had charged a man with cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot a homeless cat with a pellet gun. The cat was reportedly left paralyzed and had to be euthanized. No additional information was available.
Greenville County, South Carolina
FOXCarolina.com reported that a kitten who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had died or been euthanized and had tested positive for rabies. Three humans and five cats were reportedly exposed to the virus through contact with the kitten. The humans were receiving post-exposure treatment, and the cats were all to be quarantined in accordance with state law.
Tupelo, Mississippi
WTVA.com reported that residents of a neighborhood said that during the summer, “at least 15 cats” who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by “a pack of four or five dogs” who were also homeless or roaming unsupervised. The owner of a cat who was recently attacked said that she had found the cat dead with puncture marks on his or her neck. Authorities were working to capture the dogs.
Oahu, Hawaii
HawaiiNewsNow.com reported that four cats who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found “with pellet wounds.” Days later, another cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision was found “shot at the Hawaii Kai Park and Ride, where a bullet was recovered.” Some or all of the cats had apparently died. No additional information as available.
Boonsboro, Maryland
FOXBaltimore.com reported that six cats who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been killed and that two more were injured after they were “shot with steel razor-tip blow gun darts.” Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified. No additional information was available.
Yuma, Arizona
AZFamily.com reported that a homeless cat who’d been fed with other homeless cats by “volunteers” had been found dead under a car after being shot with an arrow. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Lincoln County, North Carolina
WCNC.com reported that a kitten who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision “had an altercation with a skunk … in an outdoor cat house.” The homeowner killed the skunk “and began treating the injured kitten. After the kitten began showing signs of aggression and neurological distress, the homeowner surrendered” the animal to an animal shelter, where he or she was apparently euthanized and tested positive for rabies. According to the report, an unspecified number of humans and other animals were exposed to the virus through contact with the kitten and authorities “began appropriate exposure protocol.”
Prineville, Oregon
CentralOregonDaily.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been shot three times in the head. The cat’s owner said that she had responded to an address after seeing a social media post alleging that a man there had shot a cat who matched the description of her missing feline. The owner said the man had admitted to shooting a cat and said that he’d disposed of the animal in a dumpster at a church. The owner found the cat alive inside the dumpster, “sitting up, covered in blood.” He was taken to a veterinary hospital, where X-rays found three bullets lodged in his head, resulting in the animal losing sight and requiring extensive treatment. He was evidently expected to survive. Authorities were investigating.
Harris County, Texas
FOX26Houston.com reported that a homeless cat who had died had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Logan, Ohio
LoganDaily.com reported that authorities had received a report about a homeless cat who had injured a child at a city park. The animal was apparently killed, and his or her body was transported to the health department to be tested for rabies. No additional information was available.
Merced County, California
ABC7News.com reported that authorities had captured and removed 10 dogs who had been roaming outdoors without supervision in a neighborhood where they had attacked and killed “at least 20” cats who were homeless or also allowed to roam outdoors unsupervised. They were searching for two more dogs.
New Ulm, Minnesota
IngstadMedia.com reported that a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found dead. The animal’s body was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that he or she “appeared to have been shot by a pellet gun.” Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Alachua County, Florida
WCJB.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Bucks County, Pennsylvania
PhillyBurbs.com reported that a homeless cat who’d been fed with other homeless cats in a mobile home park had been “found still warm and bleeding” by a passerby. The animal’s body was taken to a veterinary hospital, where an X-ray revealed that he’d been fatally shot. Anyone with information about the shooting was asked to contact authorities, but no suspects were identified.
Hillsborough Township, New Jersey
Patch.com reported that a homeless kitten who’d been picked up by animal control authorities had “developed symptoms of rabies.” He or she died or was euthanized and tested positive for the virus. No additional information was available.
Horry County, South Carolina
DPH.SC.gov reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. The animal had reportedly been “known to be part of a feral cat colony in the area.” Two dogs and two humans had been exposed to the virus through contact with the cat. The humans were referred to their healthcare providers for post-exposure treatment, and the dogs were to be quarantined in accordance with state law.
Warsaw, Missouri
BentonCountyEnterprise.com reported that authorities were investigating after a video was posted on social media that showed “two students” drowning an apparently homeless cat. No additional information was available.
Rowlett, Texas
WFAA.com reported that a homeless kitten had been seen with a dart impaled in his face. After a two-week effort to capture him, the kitten was contained and taken to an animal adoption group, which transferred him to a veterinary hospital. According to the group, the dart had gone into the cat’s face and out his cheek. He underwent surgery and was expected to survive. It wasn’t reported whether authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Craven County, North Carolina
WITN.com reported that an injured homeless kitten had been found in an area where a homeless cat had been shot earlier in the week. The kitten was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that he or she suffered from “soft tissue damage and an upper respiratory infection.” The animal was receiving treatment. The cat who was shot earlier had since died. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Beaufort County, South Carolina
WJCL.com reported that a homeless kitten who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. Nine humans who had been exposed to the virus through contact with the kitten were reportedly referred to their healthcare providers for post-exposure treatment. Three kittens who were exposed to the virus were quarantined in accordance with state law. No additional information was available.
Lampasas County, Texas
KCENTV.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Athens, Georgia
OnlineAthens.com reported that authorities had arrested a woman who was accused of assaulting a kitten who had been roaming outdoors without supervision. According to the report, surveillance footage showed the woman following the kitten onto a porch and throwing a concrete brick at him twice, striking him both times. The kitten ran off and was later found injured by a good Samaritan, who took him to an animal shelter. The kitten reportedly received treatment and was expected to survive.
August 2025 Media Reports Exposing How Cats Suffer and Die Outdoors
Timmonsville, South Carolina
WPDE.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. Three humans who were exposed to the virus through contact with the animal were reportedly referred to their healthcare providers for post-exposure treatment. No additional information was available.
Newark, New Jersey
NJ.com reported that state police had found a homeless cat with an injured eye on the shoulder of a highway. He was taken to an animal shelter for care.
Gillsville, Georgia
AccessWDUN.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. One human was exposed to the virus through contact with the cat. No additional information was available.
Mastic Beach, New York
Newsday.com reported that authorities had arrested a man and charged him with felony criminal mischief and cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision “with a BB or pellet gun.” According to the report, the shooting was captured by surveillance footage and “[p]olice said the projectile was lodged in the cat’s vertebrate, causing spinal fragmentation and paralysis of both hind legs. The cat was also diagnosed with a pulmonary contusion and internal bleeding.” The animal received $16,000 in emergency veterinary care and was evidently expected to survive.
Washoe County, Nevada
RGJ.com reported that authorities had completed a thorough investigation into the death of a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision and had been found decapitated. The investigation determined that the cat had been killed by another animal.
Holly Hill, Florida
News-JournalOnline.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Hillsville, Virginia
TheCarrollNews.com reported that a homeless cat had been captured by authorities after he or she was found “display[ing] classic signs of rabies, including unprovoked aggression and lack of fear of humans. [The animal] was reported[ly] lunging at pedestrians and possibly engaging with other animals in the area.” The cat died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies.
Miami-Dade County, Florida
NBCMiami.com reported that two cats who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision were believed to have died from poisoning. A suspect was arrested and allegedly admitted that “he put out traps and poison in the alley behind his home” but said that the cats were not the intended victims. An investigation was ongoing.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
KVIA.com reported that a cat who was described as “an outdoor cat” who’d been fed by a resident had been found injured and “dragging herself” in the resident’s yard. Authorities were called and transported the cat to an animal adoption group, where it was found that she had been shot by a BB or pellet gun. According to the report, “[O]fficials told KDKA that X-rays showed a pellet had severed the spine, causing paralysis.” The cat was in such bad shape that she had to be euthanized. The group also apparently took in five of the cat’s kittens, who were expected to survive. Authorities were asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact them, but no suspects were identified.
Comal County, Texas
News4SanAntonio.com reported that a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had “had contact” with a rabid fox. No additional information was available.
Gaston County, North Carolina
QCNews.com reported that a homeless kitten had been found on the side of a road. The animal was evidently taken to an adoption group, which transferred the kitten to a foster home. After two weeks in the home, the kitten “was eventually seen by a local clinic for basic vaccinations. During those two weeks, county officials say the kitten began to show signs of illness …. The veterinarian on staff recommended humane euthanasia upon discovery of a bite, scratch and neurological deterioration.” Testing revealed that the kitten was rabid. No additional information was available.
Bennettsville, South Carolina
WPDE.com reported that two cats who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision in a neighborhood had been attacked by a pack of dogs who were homeless or also roaming unsupervised. The owner of one of the cats said that “he heard his cat hollering more than a week ago and ran outside to see what was going on. [He] added that he saw the dogs on his cat and tried to stop the attack. He managed to get the dogs off his cat, but [the cat] died 16 hours later.” The owner of the second cat, named Fred, also witnessed the attack: “She said she yelled, screamed, clapped, and made whatever noise she could to get the dogs off of Fred. Fred survived the initial attack but later died from his injuries.” Authorities were notified.
Hallandale Beach, Florida
WSVN.com reported that a homeless cat who’d been fed by a resident had been found “cowering down in a bush and trembling in pain.” Several days later, the cat was trapped and taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that he’d been shot with a blow dart, which remained embedded in his back. He was receiving treatment and was evidently expected to survive. It wasn’t reported whether authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Cornelia, Georgia
NowHabersham.com reported that a homeless cat had been found “acting aggressively” and had attacked two people. The next day, responding authorities found the animal dead. Testing revealed that the cat had been rabid. No additional information was available.
Alexandria, Virginia
WJLA.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been exposed to rabies through contact with a fox who later died and tested positive for the virus. According to the report, health authorities were advising the cat’s owner “on the next steps.” No additional information was available.
Fort Plain, New York
News10.com reported that authorities had arrested a man on a cruelty-to-animals charge after he allegedly crossed into the opposite lane of traffic while driving a pickup truck in order to intentionally run over a homeless kitten. According to the report, a witness “reported the incident immediately and additionally drove the injured cat to a local veterinarian. Officials confirmed that the kitten required surgery to remove a severely broken leg, but is currently recovering.”
Roachdale, Indiana
CBS4Indy.com reported that authorities were “urging residents to take precautions” after two dogs who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had killed at least two cats, who were homeless or also allowed to roam outdoors unsupervised. Authorities reportedly said that the dogs’ “owner has faced multiple citations” and that they were working on “a more permanent resolution.”
Kerrville, Texas
News4SanAntonio.com reported that a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found injured after being shot in the face with a pellet gun. Authorities said that the cat was receiving medical care. They were asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact them, but no suspects were identified.
Mathews County, Virginia
VDH.Virginia.gov reported that a homeless kitten who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. GazetteJournal.net later reported that two humans had been attacked by the kitten, who was described as “making raspy-sounding meows and was thin and appeared to be in distress.” Both of the exposed individuals received post-exposure rabies treatment.
Orange County, California
KTLA.com reported that some individuals alleged that “multiple” homeless cats who were fed on the campus of Cypress College “have been found dead on the college grounds, some with signs of blunt force trauma.” They claimed that staff members on the campus had “been involved in destroying the water dishes left for the cats and ‘killing’” the animals. The college issued a statement calling the allegations “completely false.” No additional information was available.
Cambria, New York
LockportJournal.com reported that a homeless kitten had been found exhibiting “aggressive biting and scratching behavior.” The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital, where he or she was euthanized and later tested positive for rabies. According to the report, “[C]ounty health officials identified several individuals who had direct physical contact with the animal.” They were undergoing post-exposure treatment.
Atlanta, Georgia
WSBTV.com reported that a homeless cat who had been captured and euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Jefferson County, Colorado
KDVR.com reported that a cat who was evidently homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had died of the plague. No additional information was available.
Del City, Oklahoma
KOCO.com reported that “numerous” cats who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision in a neighborhood were missing or had been found dead and mutilated. The owner of one of the cats said she witnessed two dogs, who were homeless or also allowed to roam unsupervised, attack the feline on her porch and then carry the animal off the premises. The cat had not been seen since. Authorities were reportedly trying to find the dogs.
Rio Vista, California
DailyRepublic.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Media Reports About Cats Outdoors Who Came to Harm in July 2025
Wyomissing, Pennsylvania
WFMZ.com reported that a resident had found an injured homeless cat. He or she was evidently taken to an animal adoption group, where the animal died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. Authorities were reportedly “assessing the exposure to all individuals involved.” No additional information was available.
Lubbock, Texas
Star-Telegram.com reported that a homeless kitten had been found injured under a vehicle at a car dealership. She was apparently taken to an animal adoption group, which transferred her to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that one of her legs had been broken and was so badly damaged that it would have to be amputated. She was also anemic from a severe flea infestation. She was receiving treatment and was evidently expected to survive.
Lillington, North Carolina
MyDailyRecord.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Walton County, Florida
WJHG.com reported that authorities had charged a man “with aggravated animal cruelty causing death, threatening a first responder with physical harm, and obstruction without violence” after he allegedly admitted to trapping and killing cats found roaming near his home. Responding to a report about a “foul odor” coming from a trash can near the man’s home, authorities reportedly found a dead cat in a trash bag who “was covered in blood and appeared to have a large and swollen contusion on the side of [his or her] head.” When questioned, the suspect allegedly told authorities that “he ‘kills the [REDACTED] things when [he] catches them.’ Later, he told deputies he is allowed to kill the cats because they are pests.”
Havre de Grace, Maryland
WMAR2News.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. According to the report, the small cat “also had a wound on [his or her] front left paw.” Patch.com later reported that another homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had also tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Craven County, North Carolina
WCTI12.com reported that a homeless cat who had been sterilized and reabandoned had been found with a severe mouth injury. He was trapped and taken to a veterinary hospital for needed medical treatment and would reportedly be put “back out on the streets” after receiving it.
Beech Grove, Indiana
WTHR.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found dead “with a bullet wound in his chest.” A neighbor had allegedly admitted to authorities that he’d shot the cat with a handgun. He was reportedly “facing a felony charge.” No additional information was available.
Mechanicsville, Virginia
WRIC.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Dayton, Ohio
WHIO.com reported that a kitten who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by three dogs who were roaming outdoors without supervision. According to the report, the dogs also attacked and injured a resident before they were shot to death by responding police officers. The dogs’ owner was reportedly “summoned to court, but it’s not clear if that owner will face charges.”
North Stonington, Connecticut
WFSB.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Fort Edward, New York
WNYT.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found injured. He was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that his leg had been shattered by gunshot. He was receiving treatment. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Cumberland, Maryland
WCBCRadio.com reported that a homeless kitten who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. According to the report, the kitten was “associated with a colony of cats” in the area. It went on to reveal that there had been “five confirmed cases of rabies in feral cats in Garrett County so far this summer.”
Garrett County, Maryland
GarrettHealth.org reported that in two separate cases, homeless cats had attacked residents. In both cases, the residents’ spouses killed the animals and contacted authorities. Testing revealed that both cats had been rabid. According to the report, “Both recent cases involve feral cats, increasing the total number of rabid feral cats [in Garrett County] to three within just over a month.”
Tulsa, Oklahoma
KJRH.com reported that a woman who had been feeding homeless cats at her property had “found half of a cat discarded on her front lawn.” She said that the cat appeared to have been intentionally mutilated by a human. She also acknowledged that some neighbors “don’t like the cats walking through their yards.” Authorities were notified.
Berlin, New Jersey
CamdenCounty.com reported that a homeless cat found on the side of a road was taken to a veterinary hospital by a resident. The animal died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. The resident was undergoing post-exposure treatment.
Phoenix, Arizona
PhoenixNewTimes.com reported that an animal adoption group had responded to a call about injured homeless cats at a mobile home park and found “a dozen injured cats and estimated there to be 20–30 more around the neighborhood.” The group was trapping the cats and taking them for veterinary care. Injured animals included a kitten found whose “ears had been cut off and one of [his or her] paws was wounded. Patches of fur were missing.” Another kitten had been “found with ‘his tail cut off, a chunk of his leg missing, his tiny skull shattered from blunt force trauma,’” a spokesperson for the group said, and “[o]thers were found with degloved tails—that is, with the skin of their tails removed—and open wounds.” An area humane society spokesperson said, “Some of the injuries [the group] described to me would be things my team commonly sees for cats [who] have been clipped by a car, or maybe were sleeping in a car engine and the engine got turned on or were attacked by another animal.” Authorities were notified but didn’t find evidence to indicate that a human had intentionally harmed the animals.
Pitt County, North Carolina
WCTI12.com reported that a family had found a sick homeless cat and had taken the animal to a veterinary hospital, where he or she died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. Authorities reportedly said that “all individuals involved” had been advised to seek medical assessment.
Greenville County, South Carolina
WYFF4.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. An individual who was exposed to the virus through contact with the cat was referred to their healthcare provider for post-exposure treatment.
Guilford County, North Carolina
WFMYNews2.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. It was later reported that a second homeless cat who had died or been euthanized in the same area had also tested positive for the virus. No additional information was available.
Argyle, New York
News10.com reported that authorities had been contacted by a resident who said that a neighbor had been exposed to a homeless cat who’d been found dead. The animal’s remains were collected and tested positive for rabies. County officials reportedly said that “all individuals who were identified to have had exposure to the animal were referred for post-exposure treatment.”
Mower County, Minnesota
KTTC.com reported that a cat described as an “outdoor cat” had been “seen acting abnormally” before the animal attacked a dog by latching his or her claws onto the canine’s neck. The next day, the cat attacked and bit two children living at the property and was then shot by the property owner. The cat’s body was taken to a veterinary hospital, where testing revealed that he or she had been rabid. Authorities reportedly “recommended the children receive a post-exposure treatment.” The dog received a booster rabies vaccine and was quarantined for 45 days. According to the report, an unspecified number of additional cats who were roaming the property “were euthanized out of caution.”
Hagerstown, Maryland
DCNewsNow.com reported that a homeless kitten who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. The kitten had reportedly been “found near a feral cat colony.” No additional information was available.
Rohrersville, Maryland
WashCoHealth.org reported that a cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Midvale, Utah
KMYU.tv reported that a homeless cat and a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision at an apartment complex had both apparently been shot to death. According to the report, a witness called authorities after “he saw two men shoot a cat on a sidewalk.” Responding authorities “found a cat dead with a single gunshot wound.” A resident of the complex reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had also been found dead in the same area. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Yates County, New York
FingerLakesDailyNews.com reported that two homeless cats who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. According to the report, “Several people who were exposed to these cats have started rabies treatment as a precaution.” No additional information was available.
Lake Oswego, Oregon
LakeOswegoReview.com reported that authorities had received a call from an individual who “was worried after seeing three teenagers dragging a ‘very, very injured cat’ off to the side of the road.” According to the report, the caller “thought the teenagers had just found the cat and not hurt” the animal. No additional information was available.
Crowley, Louisiana
KATC.com reported that authorities had charged a man with cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot a neighbor’s cat, who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision, with a pellet gun, killing the animal. No additional information was available.
Coventry, Rhode Island
ProvidenceJournal.com reported that a resident had trapped a homeless cat after the animal was seen “acting abnormally.” According to authorities, “The resident was bitten and scratched, and an animal control officer, who’d responded to a call from the resident, was also bitten and scratched.” The cat died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. Both individuals who were exposed to the virus received post-exposure treatment. Authorities were working with the resident to capture any other homeless and roaming cats in the area.
San Jose, California
ABC7News.com reported that two apparently homeless kittens had been seen “running between lanes” on a state highway before one of them was hit and killed in traffic. When a driver pulled over to try to help, the second kitten reportedly “wedged herself inside a tire” of the vehicle. According to the report, “Multiple drivers, CHP officers, and a tow truck driver all worked together to get the kitten out.” The animal’s whiskers were burned during the ordeal. She was evidently taken to an animal adoption group and was expected to survive.
Harrison County, Texas
KLTV.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
NJ.com reported that a resident was facing 13 charges of cruelty to animals after authorities completed an investigation into reports that he had allegedly tortured and killed numerous cats who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. According to the report, “The animals were ‘tortured, beat[en] and killed’ after he coaxed the cats onto his property using food, according to the prosecutor’s office. He allegedly abused other cats by punching, hitting, and dragging them by their tails, the prosecutor’s office said. Some taking refuge in a neighbor’s makeshift shelter were also beaten with sticks, the prosecutor’s office said.” A pre-indictment conference was scheduled in the case.
Evansville, Indiana
14News.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been trapped 25 feet high in a tree during extreme temperatures for three days or longer before the animal’s owners “finally heard her crying.” When a tree service was hired to rescue her, the cat reportedly jumped, crashing onto the ground. The owners reportedly planned to take her to a veterinary hospital for care and said “the cat was panting and drinking lots of water after she was brought inside.”
Sangerfield, New York
CNYHomepage.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. One human who was exposed to the virus through contact with the cat was receiving post-exposure treatment. No additional information was available.
Jackson, Mississippi
WAPT.com reported that a homeless cat had been found with a severe leg injury. He was taken to an animal adoption group, which said that the leg would have to be amputated, and it was also found that he had “a bullet in his shoulder and a fracture in his spine.” He was evidently receiving treatment and was expected to survive. No additional information was available.
Hays, North Carolina
WXII12.com reported that a homeless cat had bitten a resident. The next day, the same cat bit the woman’s son, and when the child’s father tried to get the cat off the boy, he was also bitten. The cat reportedly “died and was brought to animal control services.” The animal’s remains were sent for testing, which revealed that he or she had been infected with rabies. No additional information was available.
Marion County, Kansas
KSN.com reported that a homeless cat had been found “in a residential area exhibiting suspicious behavior, including aggression, confusion, and stilted movement.” The animal died or was euthanized, but authorities said that the body “was unable to be tested” for rabies. No additional information was available.
Honolulu, Hawaii
HawaiiNewsNow.com reported that authorities were investigating after a man who fed homeless cats on his property reported that he’d found an unspecified number of them dead from suspected poisoning. No additional information was available.
Cases That Made the News Concerning Cats Left Outdoors to Suffer and Die in June 2025
Lake Okeechobee, Florida
LakeONews.com reported that a kitten who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found with a gunshot wound to the neck. No additional information was available.
Waikiki, Hawaii
KHON2.com reported that 13 homeless cats who had been fed at a specific location had been found dead from suspected poisoning. According to the report, “Many of the dead cats were found with bleeding from the mouth” and “veterinarians also agree” that the deaths were likely the result of ingesting poison. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Township of Westampton, New Jersey
CourierPostOnline.com reported that after a homeless kitten had been released from a standard quarantine period and placed for adoption at an animal shelter, he or she began exhibiting symptoms of rabies. The animal was evidently euthanized and tested positive for the virus. Authorities advised anyone who may have visited the facility and come into contact with the kitten to seek post-exposure rabies treatment.
Madison Lake, Minnesota
MankatoFreePress.com reported that a man had been charged with “mistreating or torturing animals and shooting firearms in a prohibited area” after he allegedly shot to death a cat who was apparently homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. After killing the animal, he allegedly “shoveled [the body] into a 5-gallon bucket and hauled [the bucket] off to work to dispose of [the animal’s body].” According to the report, a witness had come forward and the man had also admitted to authorities that he’d killed the cat. No additional information was available.
McHenry, Maryland
WVNews.com reported that a homeless cat had attacked five individuals, which “prompted all five victims to seek immediate medical attention.” Healthcare professionals involved in treating the individuals contacted animal control authorities. They were able to find and contain the cat, who was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. Health authorities were working to ensure that the exposed individuals received post-exposure treatment.
Comal County, Texas
KSAT.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Fairhaven, Massachusetts
FallRiverReporter.com reported that the city’s animal control shelter had admitted an adult cat and two badly injured kittens who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision and had been found by residents on roadsides after being hit by cars. According to the report, “The young adult cat did not survive the car hit.” One of the kittens was “roughly 4 weeks old” and had sustained a broken leg that reportedly had to be amputated. During the amputation surgery, a hernia was also found that required surgical repair. The other kitten was “roughly 6–8 weeks old” and had “sustained head trauma and was showing signs of seizures and neurological issues.” He was receiving veterinary care and “being syringe fed” by an animal control officer “around the clock.” It wasn’t clear whether he’d survive.
St. Johns County, Florida
ActionNewsJAX.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
DeKalb County, Georgia
Hoodline.com reported that two apparently homeless cats who had been found dead had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Chicago, Illinois
KansasCity.com reported that a sick homeless kitten was taken to an animal adoption group, where it was found that one of her eyes “was close to rupturing, she was dehydrated, underweight, had a respiratory infection, and she was so weak she could barely move,” according to the facility. She required extensive treatment, including the surgical removal of an eye, and was evidently expected to survive.
Middlebury, Indiana
WSBT.com reported that authorities had charged three employees of a business with cruelty to animals after they allegedly admitted to apparently killing two homeless cats by placing them in taped-shut boxes and putting them in a trash compactor. One of the accused reportedly told authorities that the business was “having problems removing stray cats from the property.” Another said “that animal shelters were full, and he thought he could, ‘take care’ of the situation.” The charges were reportedly later withdrawn with prejudice.
Lake County, Florida
Lake.FloridaHealth.gov reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
New Braunfels, Texas
MSN.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Bellmead, Texas
FOX44News.com reported that authorities had charged a man with cruelty to animals after he allegedly threw a kitten onto a roof, causing severe injuries. According to the report, video surveillance footage showed the accused knocking on the door of a neighbor’s home while holding a kitten whom the neighbor had allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. An arrest “affidavit stated that after not getting an answer at the door, the man is seen throwing the kitten into the air, causing [the animal] to land on the roof of the house. The affidavit stated the kitten suffered some sort of spinal injury and was observed by the officers to be dragging [his or her] back legs.” No additional information was available.
Murray, Utah
SLTrib.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found injured, dragging a leg, and with an “open wound on” her shoulder. She was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that she’d been shot, likely with a .22-caliber bullet. The leg was so badly damaged that it had to be amputated. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
New York, New York
Bronx.News12.com reported that a homeless cat who had been fed by a resident had been found dead, covered in blood under a car after he’d evidently been hit by a vehicle.
Frederick County, Maryland
WUSA9.com reported that a homeless cat was found “showing aggressive behavior.” Authorities were called and collected the animal, who died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Lynchburg, Virginia
WDBJ7.com reported that a homeless cat who had attacked a woman had died or been euthanized and had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Copperas Cove, Texas
KDHNews.com reported that a homeless cat who had been fed in a park by some residents had been found dead and that his or her body had been mutilated. According to the report, authorities had determined that the cat had been killed by another animal. The resident who contacted police reportedly “‘provided pictures of other deceased cats they had encountered in the area months prior (those incidents were not reported to the police department), and those pictures also looked consistent with an animal attack,’ police said. ‘There is no evidence to suggest the deaths were the result of mutilation from any person.’”
Forsyth County, Georgia
AccessWDUN.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Defiance, Ohio
WTOL.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been stuck 60 feet up in a tree for more than six days before a tree service arrived and “was able to cut the branch the cat was on and the owners of the cat caught [him] with a bed sheet.”
Dallas, North Carolina
GastonGazette.com reported that a homeless cat had died and tested positive for rabies. According to the report, the cat was taken to a veterinary clinic “by a resident who was participating in [a] program to trap, neuter and release stray cats.” The animal did not recover “as expected” from surgery, and his or her condition worsened, even though clinic staff provided “different medications and procedures over the weekend.” The animal died while being transported to another hospital, and a necropsy showed that he or she had died from the rabies virus. Authorities were trying to track down individuals who had contact with the cat.
Citrus County, Florida
ChronicleOnline.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
May 2025 Media Reports Exposing How Cats Suffer and Die Outdoors
Alamance County, North Carolina
TheTimesNews.com reported that a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had bitten two people before the animal died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. According to the report, authorities were working to capture “a litter of feral cats” in the area who may have also been exposed to the virus. No additional information was available.
La Feria, Texas
KRGV.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had allegedly been shot to death by a neighbor. According to the report, a probable cause affidavit “says [the accused] admitted he saw two cats get into his trashcan. At that point, he went inside to grab a shotgun. While the cats were running away, he fired his shotgun, killing” one of the animals. He was reportedly “arrested and charged with cruelty to animals and deadly conduct in connection with the incident.”
Palo Pinto County, Texas
WeatherfordDemocrat.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Scranton, Pennsylvania
TheTimes-Tribune.com reported that authorities had charged a man with cruelty to animals after he allegedly stomped a homeless cat to death. According to the report, a witness told authorities that “he had been sitting near his window when he spotted [the accused] stomping on a cat. [The witness] immediately left his residence and ran to help the cat. But by the time he got to the animal, [he or she] was covered in blood and appeared to be dead.” The animal’s body was reportedly examined by an animal control officer, who confirmed the cat’s death. A hearing date was set in the case.
Midleton, Wisconsin
WMTV15News.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found badly injured. He was taken to an animal shelter, which transported him to a veterinary hospital. According to the report, “X-rays show [the cat] was shot in the face and had bullet fragments near his jaw and imbedded in his neck. He also had a severely lacerated tongue and a fractured jaw with both his upper and lower jawbones completed [sheared] of the tissue.” A spokesperson for the shelter said that the severe wound on his face had become dangerously infected. The animal endured “multiple surgeries” and would reportedly “require additional surgery to stabilize his jaw fracture, according to veterinarians. He will also need to be fed through an E-tube for several weeks or maybe longer.” It wasn’t reported whether authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Chesterfield County, Virginia
WTVR.com reported that after firefighters heard a homeless kitten crying, they tracked down the animal and found him wet and “stuck in tall weeds and thorn bushes.” They were able to free the kitten and contacted the county’s animal control department. Officers responded after hours to transport the kitten to a veterinary hospital, where he required treatment for an upper respiratory infection.
Goshen, Utah
KMYU.tv reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found seriously injured. He was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that he’d been shot, likely with a .22 caliber bullet. He did not survive. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Colonie, New York
CBS6Albany.com reported that authorities had found “a deceased adult cat” and were trying to identify the animal’s owner. No additional information was available.
Miami-Dade County, Florida
Local10.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found “severely injured” and unable to move. She was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that she’d sustained “a spinal cord injury, and the x-rays showed what appeared to be a BB gun pellet lodged in her back.” According to the report, the animal “needs to see a neurologist, get an MRI and possibly even back surgery, which will cost at least $10,000.” It wasn’t clear whether she’d survive. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
San Angelo, Texas
ConchoValleyHomepage.com reported that after a storm, a homeless kitten had been found “nonresponsive and showing several signs of having drowned.” He was taken to an animal shelter, which transferred him to an animal adoption group. A spokesperson for the group said that “he then received ‘constant vet care’ from staff, being supplied with oxygen and glucose.” He was reportedly recovering and evidently expected to survive.
McRae, Arkansas
KTLO.com reported that authorities had charged a man with two felony counts of cruelty to animals after he allegedly injured and possibly killed multiple cats who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. According to the report, one cat had been “left paralyzed” after the man allegedly threw the animal into a street. The report continued, “In total, five to six cats have been reported missing. During the investigation, officers recovered a pellet rifle believed to have been used in harming the animals. Testing is underway to determine whether the rifle matches pellets found in or near the injured animals.” A court date was set in the case.
Las Vegas, Nevada
News3LV.com reported that a homeless kitten had been “found hanging by his leg in a shed.” The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that he’d sustained “a severe open wound on his leg, requiring immediate removal of dead and damaged tissue, followed by pain medication and antibiotics.” Further testing revealed that the leg was so badly damaged that it would have to be amputated. He was evidently expected to survive.
New Kent County, Virginia
WRIC.com reported that a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found with gunshot wounds resulting in “painful injuries,” according to authorities. The animal was transported to a veterinary hospital for treatment and was evidently expected to survive. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Westlake, Ohio
Cleveland19.com reported that a homeless cat had been found in a resident’s yard with an arrow through her body. A witness said, “Not only was there an arrow going through, like it had caught the skin on her shoulder, but it had crossed over and was rubbing on her chest, like her sternum area.” According to the report, “Neighbors corralled the cat into the garage” and evidently posted about the animal on social media. Someone who saw the post contained the cat overnight and took her to a veterinary hospital the next morning. It was found that the animal was also pregnant, and it wasn’t clear whether she would survive. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Delhi Township, Ohio
FOX19.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found injured and “covered in blood.” He was taken to an animal hospital, where it was found that he’d been shot with a pellet gun and had sustained a broken femur. He was receiving treatment and was evidently expected to survive. The cat’s owner reportedly said that “the veterinarian told him they deal with this somewhat regularly.” Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Waco, Texas
KXXV.com reported that two cats who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found dead, hanging from power lines with shoestrings. Authorities were called and removed the animals for necropsies. KWTX.com later reported that authorities had arrested a man in connection to the case, alleging that he’d “killed both cats with a pellet gun and recorded himself throwing the cats over the line, an arrest warrant affidavit states.” Results of the necropsies had reportedly “revealed that both cats had been shot in the head,” according to the warrant.
Twin Falls, Idaho
NewsRadio1310.com reported that posts by residents on an online community message board said that two cats who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been shot with a pellet gun. Both of the animals apparently survived. No additional information was available.
Kapaa, Hawaii
TheGardenIsland.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found badly injured and unable to stand. She was taken to a veterinary hospital, where her owner said that an X-ray showed that “she had been shot in the back close to her spine.” She was receiving treatment, including “laser treatments,” and had to remain “on pain medication due to the pellet still lodged in her back.” Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania
RepublicanHerald.com reported that a veterinary hospital had publicly posted on social media that it had “worked with a neutered male stray cat” who had died or been euthanized and had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Sacramento, California
CBSNews.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by three dogs, who were also roaming unsupervised or were homeless. The cat’s owner evidently witnessed the attack: “I just saw three grown dogs wrestle around, and I knew it was one of our cats.” Authorities were notified.
Dartmouth, Massachusetts
SouthCoastToday.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
North Miami, Florida
Local10.com reported that authorities had arrested a man who was charged with cruelty to animals after a witness videotaped him stomping on an apparently homeless “kitten and trying to wedge the cat into a metal drainage grate.” According to the report, “The kitten is believed to have died.”
Sanford, Maine
NewsCenterMaine.com reported that an apparently homeless cat was found seriously injured after she’d evidently been hit by a car. Authorities reported that she appeared to be nursing kittens and were asking for the public’s help to find them. No additional information was available.
Brewster, Washington
YourSourceOne.com reported that a homeless cat who had been left on the streets with another cat by “tenants” when they moved had been chased up a utility pole by a dog, who was also homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. According to the report, “For days, nearby homeowners heard faint meowing but couldn’t locate the source. It wasn’t until the third or fourth day that someone spotted the feline clinging to the top of the pole.” The utility company was called, and workers were able to shut off power and guide the cat to the ground. Neighbors who’d been feeding the cats were reportedly also moving away and would not be taking the abandoned cats with them. Other neighbors said they hoped to find a temporary home for the animals.
Frederick County, Maryland
DCNewsNow.com reported that a resident contacted authorities to report an apparently homeless cat who was on their property acting “highly aggressive.” The animal was contained by authorities and died or was euthanized before testing positive for rabies.
Tice, Florida
GulfCoastNewsNow.com reported that authorities had arrested a man after witnesses video-recorded him throwing an evidently homeless kitten onto the ground, killing the animal. He then allegedly buried the kitten on his property and made “disturbing comments about killing more cats.” Authorities recovered the animal’s body. According to the report, the suspect was “taken into custody and faces charges of aggravated animal cruelty.”
Westchester County, New York
WestchesterGov.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. Two humans who were exposed to the virus through contact with the cat were receiving post-exposure treatment. No additional information was available.
Claiborne County, Tennessee
WVLT.tv reported that authorities were investigating after a homeless cat had been “found with a noose around [her] mouth and neck.” The animal had evidently been found injured at a location where a resident had been feeding her and was taken to an animal shelter. It wasn’t reported whether she’d sustained permanent injuries. No suspects were identified.
Hurricane, Utah
KMYU.tv reported that a homeless kitten had been “trapped in a storm drain for several days” before Hurricane Valley Fire and Rescue was “dispatched to the scene.” Responders were able to rescue the kitten, who was transported to an animal shelter for assessment and care. No additional information was available.
Dunedin, Florida
IONTB.com reported that authorities had charged a woman with cruelty to animals after she allegedly “swerved her vehicle off the road and onto the sidewalk, striking a cat sitting there. The front tire of the vehicle collided with the cat, causing fatal injuries. The cat’s head was reportedly crushed in the impact. Witnesses stated that [the suspect] swerved back onto the roadway and sped away from the neighborhood.” An investigation was reportedly ongoing.
Simpsonville, South Carolina
WYFF4.com reported that a homeless kitten who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
East Brunswick, New Jersey
ABC7NY.com reported that a homeless cat had attacked a resident on their property. Authorities were able to capture the animal, who died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. According to the report, “Officials say in addition to the one reported human exposure, there were approximately 10 other cats possibly exposed to the rabid cat.” No additional information was available.
Baker City, Oregon
BakerCityHerald.com reported that three cats who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found dead. One of the animals had sustained wounds, including what the animal’s owner thought “appeared to have been made by a knife or other sharp blade.” Another cat had reportedly died shortly after returning home. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Maugansville, Maryland
HeraldMailMedia.com reported that a homeless cat had been found evidently ill or injured outside a fast food restaurant. Authorities were able to contain the animal, who was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Laredo, Texas
LMTOnline.com reported that authorities had arrested a man after he allegedly shot and severely injured a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. According to the report, the cat’s owner said that the “cat was severely injured and unable to move properly, states the arrest affidavit. [The suspect] then grabbed a shovel, picked up the injured cat and tossed [the animal] in an empty lot. The incident was video recorded, according to court documents.” It wasn’t reported whether the animal had survived. The accused reportedly admitted to the shooting and told authorities that “he has been struggling with cats coming into his yard and killing his chickens.” He was charged with cruelty to animals.
Media Reports About Cats Outdoors Who Came to Harm in April 2025
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
MiamiHerald.com reported that a resident had rescued a homeless cat she saw being tormented and set on fire by children. She intervened and took the cat to an animal shelter, where a spokesperson said a veterinary team found “that 80% of his tail had been severely wounded, consistent with thermal injury. The suspicions of being burned were confirmed.” The cat underwent emergency surgery to amputate his tail and was evidently expected to survive. No additional information was available.
Albemarle County, Virginia
CBS19News.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found badly injured. He was taken to an animal adoption group, where it was found that he’d been shot in the face. He reportedly endured two surgeries and was apparently expected to survive. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Jacksonville, Florida
ActionNewsJAX.com reported that multiple homeless cats who had been sterilized and reabandoned had allegedly been found injured by suspected BB gun pellets. The wounded cats were found at two apartment complexes “with injuries to their ears, back, and head,” according to an individual who said that she’d been feeding them. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified. No additional information was available.
New York, New York
QGazette.com reported that two homeless cats who had been fed “occasionally” by a resident had been found badly injured with steel-jaw traps clamped onto their legs. Both cats were evidently taken to a veterinary hospital, where each required the amputation of one of their legs. It wasn’t reported whether authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Green Springs, Ohio
SanduskyRegister.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found with a blow dart in his neck. Authorities reportedly said in a social media post that the cat was “in recovery” but gave no additional information. They asked anyone with information to contact them, but no suspects were identified.
Wake County, North Carolina
WRAL.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found injured and bleeding. He was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that he’d been shot, resulting in injuries, including “damage to his back legs and claws, as well as fluid in his lungs.” It wasn’t clear whether he was expected to survive. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Callaway County, Missouri
ABC17News.com reported that authorities had charged a man with “[a]nimal abuse and unlawful use of a weapon” after he allegedly shot to death a cat who had slipped out from a neighbor’s home. According to the report, witnesses had come forward in the case.
Santa Ana, California
LATimes.com reported that authorities had arrested a man who was suspected of killing “more than a dozen neighborhood cats after luring them to his property.” The owners of some cats who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision reportedly shared surveillance footage with authorities that showed the accused luring the animals away. He was booked “on felony charges related to animal cruelty.” No additional information was available.
Naugatuck, Connecticut
Patch.com reported that authorities had found a cat who was apparently allowed to roam outdoors without supervision dead on a road after he or she had been hit by a car.
Boyle County, Kentucky
LEX18.com reported that a homeless cat described as a “neighborhood cat” had been found shot to death with a pellet gun. According to the report, authorities said that at least two cats had “been shot by pellet guns this week.” It wasn’t reported whether they were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Rome, New York
WKTV.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found on a resident’s porch with a steel-jaw trap clamped onto a leg. An animal adoption group was called and set a box trap to capture the cat. A spokesperson for the group said that it took two days before the cat was contained and taken to a veterinary hospital. The damage to the leg was so severe that it would reportedly have to be amputated. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Harleysville, Pennsylvania
FOX29.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found injured and bleeding. She was taken to a veterinary hospital, where it was found that she’d been shot with “a pellet or bullet from a gun.” The cat’s owners said, “She got shot twice. Once straight through the body, in her upper torso, neck area and her back.” The injuries she sustained were so severe that she had to be euthanized. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
James City County, Virginia
WYDaily.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Hillsborough County, Florida
WTSP.com reported that health authorities said that a “cat with abnormal and erratic behavior attacked several people without provocation or warning in the same neighborhood on the same day.” The cat was reportedly killed and later tested positive for rabies. The individuals who were attacked were receiving post-exposure treatment. No additional information was available.
Hunt County, Texas
KETK.com reported that authorities had arrested a woman who had allegedly tortured a cat to death after the animal trespassed in her garden. According to the report, a necropsy performed on the cat’s body “revealed that twine was wrapped around the cat’s neck twice, knotted and used to secure one of [his or her] rear legs. The forensic veterinarian also found abrasions and grass around the cat’s mouth, indicating smothering, officials said.” The woman was facing charges of cruelty to animals and assault.
Hutchinson, Kansas
KWCH.com reported that authorities had investigated and determined that a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision and had been found dead on a roadside had apparently been hit by a car.
Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania
PressEnterpriseOnline.com reported that a cat who was described as an “outdoor cat” had been found “shot in the neck with some kind of pellet gun.” He or she was taken to an animal hospital for emergency surgery. No additional information was available.
Fairmount, North Dakota
ValleyNewsLive.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found “covered in blood outside of his home.” He was taken to an animal hospital, where it was found that he’d “been shot 12 times with a BB gun” and the animal died. It wasn’t reported whether authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Franklin Township, Pennsylvania
TNOnline.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had returned home dragging a seemingly paralyzed leg. He was taken to an animal hospital, where it was found that he’d been shot and a pellet remained in the leg, which had to be amputated. Another pellet was found lodged in the animal’s chest. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Phoenix, Arizona
12News.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found in a neighbor’s trash can, dead “from a gunshot wound to the head, according to court records.” According to the report, “The cat was dead for at least three days before he was found, according to court records.” The neighbor was reportedly “being held in the Maricopa County Jail.” No additional information was available.
Conway, Arkansas
FOX16.com reported that a group that sterilizes and reabandons homeless cats said that “multiple cats” had been killed or left injured after they were shot with a pellet gun. Some of the cats who were shot were owned and allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. According to the report, cats were being shot “since late November to early December of last year” and “[v]eterinary examinations have confirmed that many of the injured cats have been struck by pellet guns.” Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Palmhurst, Texas
KRGV.com reported that a man had been arrested after he admitted to authorities that he’d beaten and stomped a cat to death. According to the report, the accused told authorities that “he had picked up the cat from his neighborhood with a trap and placed the animal in a cage in the bed of his truck and drove to the gym. The affidavit states that [the accused] told police that when he arrived to the gym, he noticed the cat looked like [he or she] was dying and was ‘seizing and foaming at the mouth.’ [The accused] then said he got upset and began slamming the cat on the ground multiple times, and smashed the cat’s head with the rock, the affidavit stated. ‘[He] then picked up the cat and placed [the animal] on the curb stomping on the cat’s head and neck several times,’ the affidavit said.” He was charged with cruelty to animals.
Warren, Ohio
DVM360.com reported that authorities were investigating after three homeless cats had been found dead of suspected poisoning at a mobile home park. According to the report, “3 bowls containing tuna mixed with antifreeze and bleach” had been found at the property where the dead cats were found. No additional information was available.
Tampa, Florida
WFLA.com reported that a homeless cat who had been “killed” had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Edwardsville, Illinois
TheTelegraph.com reported that authorities had arrested a man and charged him with cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot to death a cat, who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision, with a compound bow. According to the report, the accused “admitted to killing the animal, saying he was ‘trying to calibrate the bow’ but denied knowing the animal belonged to anybody.” No additional information as available.
Amherst, Virginia
WSET.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Yuba City, California
CBSNews.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked by two dogs, who were homeless or also allowed to roam outdoors unsupervised. The attack was captured by video surveillance footage. The cat was evidently found injured the next day and was taken to an animal hospital, where he “had to be euthanized after suffering internal injuries and a detached hip.” A neighbor reportedly said that a cat described as an “outdoor cat” had “also died of injuries that appear to be from a similar animal attack.” Authorities were notified.
Madison, Wisconsin
FOX47.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found badly injured at a resident’s workplace. The finder said that when she found him, “He was panting, in pain, and trying to move but could only drag himself along the pavement.” Authorities were called, and the cat was evidently transferred to an animal adoption group, where it was found that the animal’s “left hip and right ankle have been dislocated, and his right fibula had been fractured.” The group was reportedly trying to raise money for extensive, painful surgeries that were reportedly needed. No additional information was available.
Cases That Made the News Concerning Cats Left Outdoors to Suffer and Die in March 2025
Miami-Dade County, Florida
WSNV.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been hit with some type of object by a neighbor who had previously told the animal’s owner that “he doesn’t like cats.” The attack was captured by video surveillance footage. The owner said the cat didn’t sustain permanent injuries. Authorities were notified.
Chesapeake, Virginia
13NewsNow.com reported that a homeless cat who had been found underneath a shed near a park had bitten a resident after she took the animal into her home. Authorities were apparently called and were able to contain and euthanize the cat, whose remains tested positive for rabies. The resident was undergoing post-exposure treatment.
Waynesboro, Pennsylvania
Local21News.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Local21News.com reported that two cats who were described as being “fostered” by someone who had gotten the animals sterilized and then left them outdoors had been attacked and killed by a dog who was apparently being walked by his or her owner. Video surveillance footage captured the attack, which allegedly showed the dog’s owner encouraging the dog to attack the cats. Authorities were notified.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
NBCPhiladelphia.com reported that a homeless cat who was described as a “neighborhood stray” had been attacked and killed on a resident’s porch by three dogs who were also homeless or roaming unsupervised. The attack was captured on video surveillance footage. Authorities were notified.
Sarasota, Florida
MySunCoast.com reported that a man had been charged with cruelty to animals after he allegedly shot a homeless cat to death with a pellet gun in November 2024. According to the report, the man had admitted to shooting the animal, who “he said was damaging the interiors of boats at his business.” He told authorities that “he had contacted Animal Services multiple times to complain about stray cats causing damage” but had received no relief. According to the report, after the cat was shot, he or she “ran into the street and died. Officers found the cat in the street with a wound to [the] head, the affidavit said.” A court date was set in the case.
Jackson, Mississippi
KESQ.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found with a food can stuck on his or her head. An animal adoption group was called and contained the animal, who was described as “very weak and dehydrated.” The can was removed, and the cat was receiving treatment.
Erie, Pennsylvania
YourErie.com reported that a homeless cat had lain injured on the side of a road for three days after he’d been hit by a car. He was eventually taken to an animal adoption group that reportedly “said they called every vet in Erie, but nobody would take him.” The cat was transported to a veterinary hospital in Akron, Ohio, where it was found that he would “need to have his leg amputated, but vets are waiting until he regains enough strength to have the surgery.” He was placed in a foster home and was receiving pain medications. It wasn’t clear whether he’d survive.
Imperial Beach, California
FOX5SanDiego.com reported that at least four cats who were allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed in a neighborhood by two dogs, who were also roaming unsupervised. Authorities were called and said they had impounded the dogs and returned them to their owner after a fence was secured.
New Braunfels, Texas
Herald-Zeitung.com reported that authorities had picked up a homeless cat after receiving reports that the animal “was attacking other cats in the area and behaving strangely.” The cat either died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Coral Gables, Florida
TampaBay.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had died after he was hit by a car.
McMinnville, Oregon
KATU.com reported that two cats who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by two dogs who were roaming unsupervised. A small dog had also been killed by the dogs, and “[o]ne of the incidents was caught on a Ring doorbell video.” Authorities reportedly cited the dogs’ owner.
Las Vegas, Nevada
FOX5Vegas.com reported that a homeless kitten had been trapped on a freeway overpass for three weeks before area residents were able to get an electrical contracting company to rescue the animal “using a boom lift and two nets.” The kitten was taken to an animal hospital, where he was described as dehydrated and very thin. He was receiving treatment and was evidently expected to survive.
Gahanna, Ohio
ABCOnYourSide.com reported that necropsy results on the body of a homeless cat who had died the previous summer showed that the animal had been poisoned. According to the report, a group that had sterilized and reabandoned cats in the area had found many of them sick and dead the previous summer. According to a spokesperson for the group, sick cats were taken to a veterinary hospital, where most of them had to be euthanized, including a kitten who had been found motionless and gasping for breath. Two more cats were found dead in December. According to the spokesperson, one cat’s body had been sent for a necropsy and the “report came back [showing] that she had died from the rat poison, and there was also anti-freeze in her tissues.” Authorities investigated but said they hadn’t found enough evidence for a prosecution.
Oahu, Hawaii
KHON2.com reported that a group that had sterilized and reabandoned homeless cats at a parking lot had found the dead bodies of five of them “with suspicious wounds” in February. According to the report, a sixth cat had been found injured and was taken to an animal adoption group, where he or she had to be euthanized. Later in the month, a seventh cat was found who had “apparently been shot through the head.” A spokesperson for the group that had abandoned him said, “He had a projectile that entered through his eye and out of his lower left jaw.” He received treatment and was evidently expected to survive. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Redding, California
ActionNewsNow.com reported that a cat who had been fed by a group that sterilizes and reabandons homeless cats outdoors had been found with an arrow through his body. According to the report, the nearest emergency veterinary hospital was “hours away” from the site where he’d been fed. When he was finally taken to a hospital, where he died, “the arrow had been embedded in his body for an entire week, causing severe damage. It had pierced part of his liver and nearly exited the other side of his small frame.”
Fresno, California
KMPH.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by two dogs, who were homeless or also roaming unsupervised. The attack had been captured on video surveillance footage. The cat’s owner reportedly said that “neighbors told her, it wasn’t the first time these dogs were spotted in the area killing other cats.” Authorities were notified.
Ormond Beach, Florida
News-JournalOnline.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Arcade, Georgia
MainStreetNews.com reported that authorities had received a report from a resident who said that a cat who was evidently allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked by a vulture. The resident “expressed a desire to exterminate the bird.” Federal authorities were contacted and confirmed that the bird is a member of a protected species and must be left alone. No additional information was available.
Chicago, Illinois
MiamiHerald.com reported that a homeless cat had been found in an alley crying and injured during below-freezing temperatures. He was taken to an animal adoption group that reportedly said he “was injured, with an abscess on his leg, and ulcers and scabs on his paw pads, likely from the exposure to the ice and extreme temperatures. He was also covered in flea dirt and very, very hungry.” He was evidently receiving treatment and was expected to survive.
Edgewood, Maryland
WMAR2News.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. According to the report, officials said that the cat may have exposed humans to the virus. No additional information was available.
Springfield, Massachusetts
IdahoStatesman.com reported that a homeless cat had been found injured after she’d apparently been hit by a car. She was taken to an animal adoption group, where she received medical treatment, including the surgical removal of a badly injured eye. She was evidently expected to survive.
Hopkins County, Kentucky
14News.com reported that authorities were investigating after video footage had been shared on social media that appeared to show a man kicking a cat, who was evidently homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. No additional information was available.
Hunterdon County, New Jersey
MyCentralJersey.com reported that a homeless cat had been found evidently showing signs of illness. According to the report, “The cat developed severe disease, including neurologic signs, and was humanely euthanized, according to the state Health Department.” Testing revealed that the animal had been infected with H5N1 bird flu. Other cats on the same property where the cat was found were also reportedly sick, including one who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision and tested positive for the virus. According to the report, “Other test results are pending and the investigation is ongoing.”
February 2025 Media Reports Exposing How Cats Suffer and Die Outdoors
West Memphis, Arkansas
WREG.com reported that authorities had arrested a man who had allegedly killed two apparently homeless cats by drowning them. According to the report, authorities had received video footage “regarding the incident.” When police visited the man’s property with a search warrant, they “found animal traps and two dead cats [who] appeared to have been drowned in a tank of water on the property.” The man was charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.
Leeds, New York
TimesUnion.com reported that two homeless cats had been found injured in the same area. The cats were contained and taken to an animal adoption group, where a spokesperson said that one of them had an injury on his or her back that looked like it had been caused intentionally. The cat reportedly “later died from other causes.” The second cat had evidently “been injured for ‘several weeks’ before [he or she] was trapped and treated.” Metal fragments were found in a paw, which had been “completely shattered.” That cat was evidently expected to survive. Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
Half Moon Bay, California
ABC7News.com reported that an extremely ill homeless cat had been found by a family. He was taken to an animal adoption group, where a spokesperson said, “It was determined he had the bird flu along with a number of symptoms,” and the animal was euthanized. According to the spokesperson, symptoms of the virus in cats can include the following: “Loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, neurological symptoms like circling around excessively or maybe tremors, vision loss and then respiratory signs, respiratory things happening. That could [be] like rapid shallow breathing [and] excess discharges from nose and eyes.”
Buffalo, New York
WGRZ.com reported that a homeless cat had been found injured on a resident’s porch during freezing temperatures. She was taken to an animal adoption group, where she was receiving treatment for severe frostbite to her feet.
Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina
TheCoastlandTimes.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had become wedged inside a storm drain during a snowstorm. He was trapped in the drain for more than four days before one of his owners heard him crying. Authorities were called and worked for about an hour to rescue the feline. He was returned to the owners, who said that he’d sustained “frostbite on the tops of his paws and was weak and sore.”
Readington Township, New Jersey
ReadingtonTwpNJ.gov reported that a kitten who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Schulenburg, Texas
FayetteCountyRecord.com reported that city police had received a call about an injured cat who may have been hit by a car found in a resident’s yard. The call was reportedly referred to an animal control officer. No additional information was available.
McLeansville, North Carolina
ABC45.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Savannah, Georgia
WJCL.com reported that a homeless cat had been found “acting drunk.” A good Samaritan was scratched in the process of placing the cat in a carrier for transport to an animal shelter, where the cat was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. The good Samaritan was reportedly undergoing post-exposure treatment.
Breesport, New York
WENY.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. According to the report, “multiple people who were in close contact with the infected cat are now being vaccinated against the disease” and health authorities were “looking for more potential victims.”
Red Bluff, California
KRCRTV.com reported that a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had become stranded on a small island in a river. Residents had reported seeing the animal stranded for an entire weekend. According to the report, fire rescue personnel “made a fast water rescue” to retrieve the animal, who had sustained “a tail wound that required two inches of his tail be amputated.” He was receiving treatment and was evidently expected to survive.
Clovis, New Mexico
EasternNewMexicoNews.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found in a resident’s yard exhibiting symptoms consistent with rabies. Authorities were called and collected the animal, who was taken to an animal shelter and had to be euthanized. The animal’s remains were sent for testing and tested negative for rabies but positive for H5N1 bird flu. According to a spokesperson for the shelter, the cat had likely been infected after attacking and/or eating a wild bird.
Dale County, Alabama
WDHN.com reported that authorities were investigating after video footage was posted on social media that showed a teenager beating a cat, who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision, with a shovel. Another video appeared to show the teen possibly drowning a cat in the bed of a pickup truck. The teen had been identified, and an investigation was ongoing. No additional information was available.
Chicago, Illinois
WGNTV.com reported that a homeless cat had been found crying and “freezing in the wind outside Wrigley Field.” He was taken to an animal adoption group, which reportedly said that “veterinarians found an abscess on his paw and ulcerations likely caused by frigid frostbite conditions.” He was receiving medical treatment and was evidently expected to survive.
Portland, Oregon
KATU.com reported that authorities had charged a man with aggravated cruelty to animals after a witness said she saw him “lure a cat out of the bushes with cat food, then choke the cat and repeatedly slam [the animal] against the concrete. She thought the cat was dead since the man was twirling the cat above his head as he left.” No additional information was available.
Thomasville, Georgia
WTXL.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found dead by his owner in January. The animal’s body was taken to an animal shelter, where the owner said that a worker reportedly “saw a clear gunshot wound from the top of his head all the way through his jaw [and] bruising on the top of his head where the shot was placed.” Authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified. WALB.com later reported that investigators had found video surveillance footage that confirmed that the cat had not been shot but had been fatally attacked by three dogs, who were homeless or also allowed to roam outdoors unsupervised.
Reedley, California
KMJNow.com reported that health authorities were advising residents that a rabid bat found in the area “may have been in contact with several feral cats before being secured and sent for testing.” No additional information was available.
Alpharetta, Georgia
AccessWDUN.com reported that a homeless cat had been captured by a resident in January. The animal was taken to an animal control agency, where authorities said that the cat “suffered a medical complication that was consistent with an animal presenting with rabies.” The animal had evidently been euthanized and tested positive for the virus. According to the report, “Public health officials will alert individuals who have been exposed to potential risks and advise them to seek medical attention if necessary.”
Santa Cruz, California
KEYT.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had returned home bleeding and badly injured after he’d evidently been shot. He was taken to a veterinary hospital, where he had to be euthanized because of the severity of the injuries. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Lowell, Massachusetts
LowellSun.com reported that authorities had filed additional charges against a man who was accused of capturing animals in illegally set leghold traps, including a cat who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision. According to the report, the accused had “admitted to trapping the cat and striking [the animal] in the head two or three times with a metal pole to kill [him or her], adding that the animal may have been in the trap for more than a day.” He was also accused of trapping and killing numerous wild animals. A court date was set in the case.
Hopewell, Virginia
Progress-Index.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Media Reports About Cats Outdoors Who Came to Harm in January 2025
New York, New York
Newsbreak.com reported that authorities were searching for a man who had allegedly beaten a cat, who was homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision, on a street with a wooden stool. Authorities reportedly said that the cat had sustained a broken jaw and fractured vertebrae in his or her neck and back as a result of the beating. The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital for treatment. No additional information was available.
Ashland, Ohio
FOX8.com reported that an apparently homeless cat who had been fed by a resident had been found dead on her porch. The animal’s body was taken to a veterinary hospital, where, according to a police report, “workers determined the cat had been shot in the head and abdomen.” The resident reportedly “told police she’s seen two other cats with similar injuries to their necks.” Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Lee County, Florida
WINKNews.com reported that a homeless cat had been found limping and with “what appeared to be a BB-sized hole in the cat’s backside.” She was taken to a veterinary hospital, where, according to authorities, a veterinarian “confirmed the injuries were consistent with a BB gun pellet.” She was receiving treatment and was evidently expected to survive. Authorities were investigating a possible suspect who had apparently complained that the cat was trespassing on their property, “but no arrests or charges have been announced at this time.”
Dayton, Ohio
WDTN.com reported that authorities had rescued an apparently homeless cat who had been found injured on an interstate highway. The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital for treatment and was expected to survive.
Sonoma County, California
KRON4.com reported that authorities had rescued a homeless cat who’d been found injured on an interstate highway. The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital for care.
Topeka, Kansas
Bradenton.com reported that an apparently homeless cat had been found injured. He was taken to an animal adoption group, where it was found that he had an upper respiratory infection and a broken jaw and that one of his eyes “was sunken in and no longer working.” He received treatment, including the surgical removal of the damaged eye, and was evidently expected to survive.
Columbia, Tennessee
WKRN.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found badly injured after he was evidently shot with a BB gun. His owners said that the animal’s “condition started to deteriorate overnight, so they tried to transport him for veterinary care.” However, the cat died before reaching the hospital. It wasn’t reported whether authorities were notified, but no suspects were identified.
McKeesport, Pennsylvania
CBSNews.com reported that a passerby had found a homeless cat “lying motionless on the snow” in a resident’s driveway. She was taken to a veterinary hospital, where the finder said that her temperature was so low that it “would not register on a thermometer for about two hours.” It was found that she’d also sustained likely frostbite and had infected wounds on her legs. She was receiving treatment, including needed painkillers.
Hendersonville, Tennessee
WSMV.com reported that a cat who was apparently allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been shot with an arrow. According to the report, “Despite being taken to a local emergency veterinarian clinic, the cat died from [his or her] wounds.” Authorities arrested a suspect who was “charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.”
Elgin, South Carolina
TegaCaySun.com reported that a homeless kitten had been “found with wounds of unknown origin.” He or she had died or been euthanized and tested positive for rabies. According to the report, “Eight people were exposed and have been referred to their health care providers. Two dogs were exposed and will be quarantined as required in the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. A feral cat colony was observed in the area and was potentially exposed.”
San Antonio, Texas
MySanAntonio.com reported that a resident who apparently fed homeless cats in a neighborhood said that a pack of dogs who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had recently attacked and “killed at least half a dozen” of them. One of the fatal attacks was captured on video surveillance footage. Authorities were notified.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
NJ.com reported that authorities had charged an 18-year-old man with cruelty to animals after he posted videos online that allegedly showed him “hurling cats in Atlantic City streets.” According to the report, “A tipster sent Atlantic City police a video last month showing the man picking up a cat and throwing [the animal] into the air as he walked with a group …. Police couldn’t find an injured or deceased cat, but uncovered a separate video of the same man tossing a different cat, police said.” No additional information was available.
Covington, Tennessee
ActionNews5.com reported that “multiple cats” who were homeless or allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been attacked and killed by two dogs, who were also homeless or roaming unsupervised. The dogs had also killed other dogs and wildlife. Authorities were searching for the canines.
Pylesville, Maryland
Patch.com reported that a homeless kitten who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Sulphur, Louisiana
KPLCTV.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had been found on his or her owner’s porch injured after being “shot multiple times” with a BB gun. The cat was evidently taken to a veterinary hospital for treatment. A dog in the same neighborhood had also been shot. Authorities were investigating, but no suspects were identified.
Farmington, New Mexico
KOB.com reported that a cat who was allowed to roam outdoors without supervision had sustained injuries after becoming caught in a steel-jaw trap. No additional information was available.
Elizabethtown, North Carolina
WWAYTV3.com reported that a homeless cat had been seen exhibiting “strange behaviors.” Authorities were called and collected the animal, who died or was euthanized and tested positive for rabies. No additional information was available.
Detroit, Michigan
TheMirror.com reported that two pit bulls who had “escaped from their owner’s yard” had been “seen tearing a stray cat apart” by officers who were responding to reports that the dogs had attacked several people in the area. One of the dogs was fatally shot by responding officers, and the other was impounded and euthanized. The dogs’ owner was cited for various infractions.
New Bremen, New York
WWNYTV.com reported that a homeless cat who had died or been euthanized had tested positive for rabies. A human who had been exposed to the virus through contact with the cat was reportedly receiving post-exposure treatment. No additional information was available.
Clearwater, Florida
Patch.com reported that a homeless kitten had been found trapped in a sewer cleanout. Authorities reportedly said that efforts were “complicated by residents who weren’t aware of the situation [and were] flushing their toilets and causing the kitten to be flushed down the pipe.” According to the report, “After multiple failed attempts with a homemade snare, the kitten was rescued.” No additional information was available.
Vacaville, California
NBCBayArea.com reported that a homeless cat had been mauled by a dog at an apartment complex. A resident claimed that the cat had “just started to recover before he went up a tall tree and then began crying day and night for five days.” The cat was rescued after multiple failed efforts and was taken to a veterinary hospital, where he was reportedly being treated for wounds and was evidently expected to survive.
Take a look at even more reasons never to let your cat outside unattended, and pledge to keep cats safe indoors.
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Urge the Harper County Board of Commissioners to protect dogs from being caged and bled their entire lives by voting “no” on Wilson’s request.
Please politely urge Van Buren County officials to mandate immediate veterinary care for these horses.
In addition to appeals to government authorities, PETA has written to FIFA, asking it not to stand by silently while this devastating extermination occurs on its behalf. Join us and send FIFA a message now!
Ask your local legislator to vote in support of a public hearing for the proposed local law regulating the outdoor restraint of dogs in Clinton County.
Please politely urge officials to intervene for these dogs immediately.
Please contact elected officials today and demand that they remove the workers shown on video abusing animals at the publicly funded shelter.
