RSPCA issue statement after sick thugs attach firework to helpless cat before lighting it

A firework was attached to the cat and lit, killing the defenceless animal in East Dene a few days before Bonfire Night.

It is one of a number of incidents being highlighted by the animal charity as part of its ‘Bang Out Of Order’ campaign, which call for tighter controls and regulations around the sale and use of fireworks in a bid to help animals and people who suffer with fireworks phobias and noise aversion.

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The charity wants the use of fireworks to be restricted to agreed traditional dates – November 5, New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year and Diwali – and a reduction in the maximum permitted noise level of fireworks.

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The RSPCA received 82 calls related to animals and fireworks between October 26 and yesterday.

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It also said there has been a ‘number of shocking deliberate attacks on animals’ as well as incidents in which animals have died as a result of being spooked or frightened by fireworks.

An RSPCA spokesperson said: “We were contacted on November 2 after a cat was killed in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, when a firework was attached to him and lit.

“On Bonfire Night itself we were made aware of two incidents - one in Bradford, West Yorkshire, and one in Kenilworth, Warwickshire - in which fireworks had been strapped to kittens before being set off.

“And on Friday, November 6, the burned body of a cat was found strapped to a firework in Queensferry, Wales.”

RSPCA animal welfare expert Dr Mark Kennedy said: “Fireworks are extremely stressful and frightening for many animals. Around 62 per cent of dogs, 55 her cent of horses and 54 per cent of cats in the UK show signs of anxiety when they hear fireworks.

“All too often we hear heartbreaking stories of animals who seriously injure themselves in a blind panic after being spooked by fireworks.

“Perhaps even more shockingly, we seem to be seeing more incidents reported to our inspectors of animals being deliberately targeted and injured using fireworks. Enough is enough; we need tighter controls over the sale and use of these potentially lethal explosives.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.