Warning to cat owners after pets shaved in 'disturbing' spate of attacks across Kent

Dozens of cats have been targeted in the cruel attack. Credit: Animals Lost and Found

Cat owners across the South East are being warned to be vigilant after dozens of animals had their fur shaved in a series of disturbing assaults.

More than 50 incidents have been reported across Kent since Christmas with the upsetting act becoming almost a daily occurrence.

Charity Animals Lost and Found is so concerned it has set up a map of all the reported incidents, which appear to be spreading north towards Essex.

It's reported pets are being targeted as part of a cruel TikTok trend involving cats being 'marked for death'.

A map shows the scale of the problem across Kent with in excess of 50 incidents reported. Credit: Animals Lost and Found

Cats and their owners are being left traumatised, with some now scared to let their cats out in case they are targeted.

Charlotte Speers' cat Coco was shaved.

Her cat returned home shaved on Monday and Ms Speers, from Rainham, says the moggy has not been herself ever since.

"I let her out and she was absolutely fine," Charlotte said.

One of the cats targeted in what's believed to be a cruel TikTok trend. Credit: Animals Lost and Found

"My mum let her in in the afternoon, and we noticed that the backs of her legs looked different.

"When I picked her up, I saw that her legs have been shaved.

Charlotte Speers noticed her cat Coco had been shaved on her tummy and inside of her legs. Credit: ITV Meridian

"Last night she came up to me for a cuddle and I noticed her tummy and the insides of her legs had been shaved as well.

"She's been jumpy and uncomfortable and not finding a position to sit or lay down because of the stubble."

  • Charlotte Speers said she is worried and angry after her cat Coco was shaved

ITV Meridian contacted Kent Police, and in response a spokesperson said cat shaving is not an offence.

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