Treatment for '˜terrified' Isabel

Isabel was discovered outside the premises by staff at Sheffield Cats Shelter last week, after having her fur and her whiskers cut off.

She is now being cared for by staff who are hoping to help her recover, physically and mentally, before they can rehome her.

“When we found her, Isabel was so frightened that she wouldn’t eat for two days,” said cat care manager, Kim Steele.

“There’s no logic to what had been done to her, it just seems to be for cruelty’s sake. It was only after a lot of patience and TLC that staff were able to tempt her with some tasty nibbles. We cannot fathom why anyone would do this.”

Cats whiskers are very important to them because they have touch receptors which connect to the animal’s muscular and nervous systems. This allows cats to be aware of and adapt to their environment.

Kim added: “Although whisker grow back, cats need them to remain intact in the same way that humans need touch senses to get around. If they are damaged, cats become disorientated and frightened.”

As with all new residents, Isabel has been examined by a vet and has now been neutered, vaccinated and microchipped, which all costs money. Visit www.thesheffieldcatsshelter.org.uk to donate to Isabel’s treatment.