Cat rescued from burning carrier box

A CRUMLIN woman has issued an urgent warning after she rescued a cat from a burning carrier box found abandoned on a rural road.

Talking to social media, Francesca Waite said: “On Monday 24th November we were driving home along the Ballyhill Road onto Carnaghliss road and noticed a cat carrier at the side of the road.

“In an area known for dumping.

“We found a severely burned cat on the country lane, along with a pet carrier that had been deliberately set on fire.

“This is was not accidental. It seems the someone has tried to set fire to the cat carrier and the cat has just barely escaped.

“The cat was found in a ditch in a bad way, crying out, and is now at the vets receiving treatment.

“He is extremely friendly, so we believe he may have been someone’s pet.

“He’s not microchipped so we are planning to home the cat ourselves.

“I’m posting this to warn others to be vigilant and to ask for the community’s help.

“If anyone has seen anything suspicious in the area recently

“If you recognise this cat.

“Or if you know of a missing cat that matches her description

“Please get in touch, or report directly to the relevant animal welfare authorities.

“This is a shocking and deliberate act of cruelty, and any information - no matter how small - could make a difference.

“Please share to raise awareness and help keep animals in our area safe.”

Later, she added: “I’m a woman on a mission to find who did it.

“I’ve been on the phone to police and animal welfare and going round neighbours trying to get CCTV to catch the evil person.

“The cat is doing well and in safe hands recovering at the vets.

“He’s actually a wee boy cat and just the sweetest wee cat all considering what he’s been through.

“Thanks for the offers for help with the vet bills but not needed.

“The vets have been absolutely fantastic and are not charging and happy to treat him. They’ve been doing a fantastic job getting him better and comfortable.”