RSPCA investigates after cats tied up in pillowcases and left on LIVE railway line

              

Appeal for information after dumped cats ‘run over’ by trains

The RSPCA is investigating after finding two cats tied up in pillowcases and dumped on a live railway line in Kent – where they were ‘run over’ by at least three trains.

The animal welfare charity was contacted by worried Network Rail staff who found the two cats on the line in Deal on Tuesday (13 September) lunchtime.

RSPCA inspector Deborah Pert, investigating, said: “It’s a miracle that these cats are still alive.

“One was found underneath the live rail and the other was underneath a running track. Both had been bundled into pillowcases which were tied tightly.

“The Network Rail workers had to anxiously watch three trains run over the top of the cats while they waited for the live line to be switched off so they could retrieve them safely.

“Thankfully the trains seemed to pass right over the top of them so, unbelievably, they’ve come out without a scratch on them.”

The one-year-old cats, who were both microchipped, reportedly went missing days before they were found. Sophie disappeared from her home nine days before she was found, with Tiggs going missing a week later.

The cats are now receiving treatment at a local veterinary practice and the RSPCA – working alongside police – has launched an investigation into how they came to end up on the railway line.

 

“We believe someone has deliberately tied these cats up and thrown them onto the railway line,” inspector Pert added.

 

“Whoever did this must have been fully aware of the horrific fate that awaited them on the track.

 

“We’d like to hear from anyone who may have seen someone dumping these poor cats or who may have first-hand information about who left them on the railway to die.”

 

Anyone who can assist the investigation should contact the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

 

The RSPCA is a charity and we rely on public donations to exist. To assist our inspectors in carrying out their vital work please text HELP to 78866 to give £3 (Texts cost £3 + one standard network rate message).

 

Contact:

Contact: Amy De-Keyzer Press Officer Tel: 0300 123 0375

E-mail: [email protected]   web: www.rspca.org.uk/media

Duty press officer (evenings and weekends) 07825 158490

RSPCA, Wilberforce Way, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9RS
Press office direct lines: 0300 123 0244/0288  Fax: 0303 123 0099
Duty press officer (evenings and weekends) Tel 07825 158490

Email: [email protected]  Website: www.rspca.org.uk