Several months ago, the Cabinet Vétérinaire Félin de Nancy in Meurthe-et-Moselle, France, had a very unpleasant surprise.
Outside the door, the veterinary team found a cardboard box with large holes punched in it, sealed with wide strips of tape. They quickly realised there was an animal inside. After taking it indoors to open it safely, they discovered a poor Persian cat with barely any room to move.
The animal was clearly neglected. Its fur was matted, and it was soaking in its own urine, which had a very strong smell as the cat had not been neutered.
The sight alone was enough to anger the team, but their fury intensified when they read the short note taped to the box by the cat's callous owner.
"I’m leaving you my cat because he is ill"
On a small piece of paper, the owner explained and justified their actions: "Hello, I’m leaving you my cat because he has been ill for a few days. He’s not eating anymore. He’s hiding. He’s toileting everywhere. I think he has a urinary infection. I don’t have any money to treat him. I’m entrusting him to you, thank you."
A stark reminder for all pet owners
Frustrated by this irresponsible behaviour and the poor cat's condition, the veterinary clinic team decided to share the story on their social media. They also took the opportunity to issue a reminder of some basic principles that every pet owner should consider before getting a four-legged companion: "A cat is not a cuddly toy or some object that you get for yourself and then toss out like rubbish when it’s broken, ill, injured, or becomes an inconvenience. YES, a cat costs money! Not necessarily when you get one, as many kittens are given away for free, but throughout its life. It costs money for food, litter, and toys, and YES, it also costs money when it gets ill and needs treatment. You have to think about that before you get a pet."
As this Persian cat was not microchipped, it was of course impossible to trace the owner, whose cowardly behaviour was highlighted by the Cabinet Vétérinaire Félin de Nancy.
Once taken into their care, the tomcat could finally breathe a sigh of relief.
