A CAT has been found dead with his tail and right ear missing in the latest shocking case of animal cruelty in the region.

The pet was found dead in a park in Harrogate with horrific injuries which are believed to have been deliberately inflicted.

North Yorkshire Police are now investigating and have issued an appeal for information.

Vets from a practice in Harrogate called police on Sunday, November 6, after the ginger cat, called Max, was found dead in the park between Roberts Crescent and Knapping Hill.

He had been missing for ten months prior to being found dead.

Officers investigating the incident are appealing to anyone who has any information about where Max has been for the past ten months or has any information about who is responsible for attacking him.

The cat is described as ginger with white paws, long white “socks” on his back legs and a white patch on his chest.

After being missing for so long, Max’s owners were resigned to the fact that they would probably not see him again, but were horrified after finding out what had actually happened to their beloved pet.

It is the latest case of extreme animal cruelty in the region. An elderly, emaciated and dying dog was dumped in a layby near Hartlepool at the weekend. The dog was about 16 and had been left with only a blanket for warmth during freezing temperatures.

Last month a small dog was found buried alive in woods with a nail sticking out from between its eyes near Redcar, east Cleveland. The animal was put to sleep by vets.

  • Anyone with any information that could help the investigation is asked to call North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask to speak to the Safer Neighbourhood Service Desk.
  • People can also email neil.himsworth@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
  • Please quote reference number 12160201717 when passing on information.

The RSPCA has been informed.