The incident took place on 28th July 2025, at around 6 am. A couple's cat, Merlin, had been missing for several days when one of his owners heard meowing near their home.
A desperate cry for help
She got up to investigate the source of the meows but couldn't find anything. A few hours later, however, the cries started again.
The couple decided to follow the sound and were horrified by what they found. It was their black and white cat, Merlin, crying for help from a cage in their 80-year-old neighbour's garden.
A matter for the courts
The neighbour released Merlin, and the couple rushed him to the vet for a check-up. His condition was worrying; he was extremely stressed and had lost nearly a pound in just a few days.
The couple pressed charges, and the neighbour admitted to his actions. He stated that he "couldn't stand having cats around" and refused to pay the €147 vet bill.
The man was tried on Tuesday, 13th January 2026, at the Bordeaux court. He faces a fine of up to €750, and the court found him guilty of "unnecessary cruelty to a domestic animal." Poor Merlin. We're so relieved he is now safe and sound, and back with his owners.
