Story perspectives

Police Probe Amputated Cats in Southern Japan

9/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Police in southern Japan are investigating potential animal cruelty after 10 stray cats were found with amputated legs.
The first case was reported a year ago in Niihama, Ehime prefecture.
Injuries appear too clean to be accidental, according to Kaoru Matsuo from the Ehime Dog and Cat Association.
Local hunting associations deny using traps, and experts rule out wild animal attacks.
In 2023, Japan recorded 181 violations of animal welfare laws, with cats being the most abused.

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Story summary

Police in southern Japan are investigating potential animal cruelty after 10 stray cats were found with amputated legs.
The first case was reported a year ago in Niihama, Ehime prefecture.
Injuries appear too clean to be accidental, according to Kaoru Matsuo from the Ehime Dog and Cat Association.
Local hunting associations deny using traps, and experts rule out wild animal attacks.
In 2023, Japan recorded 181 violations of animal welfare laws, with cats being the most abused.