PETER AND DEBBIE ROGERS FROM WHITCHURCH CONVICTED OVER CRUELTY TO PERSIAN CAT TOFFEE

In a distressing case of animal neglect, Peter and Debbie Rogers, residents of Field Cottages, Alkington, Whitchurch SY13 3NE, have been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to their pet cat, Toffee. The case, which drew significant attention from local animal welfare authorities, highlights the severe neglect that led to the tragic euthanasia of the beloved Persian cat.

On June 8, 2021, RSPCA inspector Nayman Dunderdale responded to a report concerning a matted, limping silver tabby cat with apparent health issues. Upon arriving at the Rogers' property, the inspector observed a cat in a dire state. Peter Rogers explained that Toffee, estimated to be between four and five years old, was suffering from cancer and had lost her eyes. He expressed remorse, stating that she needed to be euthanized and that it was his fault for neglecting her health for so long.

However, a subsequent check at the couple’s veterinarian revealed inconsistencies. The vet practice, which had some of the Rogers' other cats registered, did not have any record of Toffee under their care. During the inspection, Peter Rogers also claimed that they were professional cat breeders, a statement that was scrutinized during the investigation.

Inspector Dunderdale recounted that Peter Rogers brought Toffee to him, describing her as extremely thin, with her eyes closed, covered in green discharge, and with matted hair embedded around her eye sockets and cheeks. The cat’s bones, including her hips, spine, and hindquarters, were easily visible, indicating severe emaciation. Toffee weighed only 1.1 kilograms (approximately 2.4 pounds), far below the healthy weight range of 2 to 2.5 kilograms (roughly 4.4 to 5.5 pounds).

Veterinary examination confirmed that Toffee’s eyes had ruptured many days or even weeks prior, evidenced by the thick dried discharge and the presence of matted hair. She had been rubbing her face in an attempt to alleviate the pain, which was evident from the discharge on her forelimbs. The vet described her condition as one of the clearest cases of severe neglect seen in the past decade. Despite her gentle nature, Toffee was suffering intense pain, particularly from corneal damage, which is known to be one of the most acute forms of pain an animal can endure.

The veterinarian concluded that her quality of life was so compromised that euthanasia was the only humane option. She was euthanized shortly after her examination. The vet emphasized that her owners had ignored obvious signs of pain and distress over an extended period, allowing her to become dangerously underweight and severely compromised.

During court proceedings, it was revealed that the couple had been experiencing bereavement and illness, and Peter Rogers was undergoing mental health difficulties, which may have contributed to their neglect. Nevertheless, a total of 15 animals owned by the Rogers have since been rehomed, reflecting ongoing efforts to address the situation.

Following sentencing, inspector Dunderdale expressed his disappointment, stating, “It was clear that Toffee had been suffering pain and distress for a long time, and her owners should have sought treatment at the earliest opportunity. Her quality of life was so poor at the end that euthanasia was the only option. We always urge pet owners to seek help if they are struggling to care for their animals, rather than letting the situation deteriorate to this extent.”

The court sentenced Peter and Debbie Rogers to 200 hours of unpaid work, ordered them to pay costs and charges totaling £345, and imposed a lifetime ban on keeping all animals. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the devastating consequences of neglect.