ADELE MILNE FROM WERNETH FACES COURT OVER CAT'S SUFFERING IN OLDHAM

Adele Milne, a resident of Manchester Road in Werneth, Oldham, has been brought before the courts following a heartbreaking case of animal neglect involving her pet cat, Millie. Born in May 1985, Milne was found guilty of failing to seek necessary veterinary care for her feline companion, who endured severe suffering due to an untreated ulcerated necrotic mass on her stomach.

Between May 22 and June 5, 2023, Milne neglected her responsibility to provide medical attention for Millie, who was suffering from a large, ulcerated wound on her abdomen. The wound was so severe that it broke through the cat’s skin, creating a painful and infected lesion. An RSPCA officer, Jessica Pierce, responded to a welfare concern reported at Milne’s residence on June 5, 2023. Upon arrival, she was confronted with the distressing sight of Millie, who was left to endure the agony of her untreated condition.

Ms. Pierce described the wound as the largest she had ever encountered on a cat during her extensive experience in animal rescue. In her court statement, she explained that Milne claimed the wound had been present for a few months, initially starting as a small lump that the cat had been licking. Despite attempts to contact veterinary clinics and an animal charity, Milne admitted she was unable to catch Millie to bring her in for treatment.

With the owner’s consent, Ms. Pierce took Millie to the Greater Manchester Animal Hospital for urgent care. Veterinary examinations revealed that Millie was suffering from a malignant mammary tumor, in addition to severe dental disease. The veterinary team confirmed that the tumor would have caused the cat significant pain for at least a week, if not longer. The extent of ulceration, infection, and tissue death indicated that Millie was in considerable distress.

The veterinary expert report emphasized that early intervention could have potentially treated the tumor successfully. However, due to the advanced stage of the disease, euthanasia was deemed the most humane option to prevent further suffering. The veterinarian stated that such tumors often have a poor prognosis and that euthanasia is often the compassionate choice before the condition worsens to this extent.

In court, it was acknowledged that Milne had attempted to treat Millie’s wound herself using over-the-counter products purchased from shops. Despite her efforts, her neglect allowed the condition to worsen to a critical point, resulting in unnecessary pain and suffering for the cat.

Sentencing included a community order with a 10-day rehabilitation activity requirement. Milne was also ordered to pay a fine of £120, a victim surcharge of £114, and court costs of £50. Additionally, she was disqualified from owning or keeping any animals for a period of nine months, which will expire in August 2024. The case highlights the importance of timely veterinary intervention and responsible pet ownership, especially in cases of severe injury or illness.