REBECCA DAVIES OF CALDICOT SENTENCED FOR NEGLECTING CAT MITZI WITH TUMOUR IN SOUTH WALES

Rebecca Davies, a resident of Caldicot, was found guilty in connection with the neglect and suffering of her pet cat, Mitzi, a five-year-old tortoiseshell. The case highlights serious concerns about animal welfare and the consequences of neglecting veterinary needs.

In May 2020, RSPCA inspector Christine McNeil responded to welfare concerns at Davies' residence on Stafford Road in Caldicot. Upon arrival, she observed Mitzi outside with a visible sore on her left hind leg. The wound appeared to be worsening, and the cat was showing signs of lameness. Davies explained to the inspector that she lacked transportation to a veterinarian, believed clinics were closed, and cited financial difficulties as reasons for not seeking immediate medical attention for Mitzi.

The following day, the RSPCA arranged for Mitzi to be examined by a veterinarian. The vet confirmed that Mitzi was suffering from a tumour on her leg, which had likely been developing for at least three weeks. The veterinarian recommended that the limb be amputated and that tests be conducted to determine if the tumour had spread. Mitzi was administered pain relief, and the vet advised that the necessary surgery should be performed within a week to two weeks to prevent further suffering.

On May 12, inspector McNeil contacted Davies for an update. During this call, Davies claimed she had been in touch with a vet and had sent them photographs and notes about Mitzi’s condition. However, she was unable to provide the name of the veterinarian she had spoken to, suggesting it might be someone named ‘Catherine’. Further inquiries revealed that the veterinary practice she referenced had not provided any advice or treatment options, as they had not seen Mitzi in person. The practice confirmed that no consultation or treatment had taken place.

Despite repeated reminders about the urgency of Mitzi’s condition, Davies insisted she was waiting for owed money and was doing her best to arrange treatment. She denied that Mitzi was suffering and declined offers of transportation or surrendering her to the RSPCA for care. On May 26, the veterinary practice Davies claimed to have contacted confirmed they had no record of Mitzi and no vet or nurse named Catherine working there. They also stated that Mitzi had not been seen by their staff.

By June 2, the situation had worsened significantly. Inspector McNeil, accompanied by a police officer, returned to Davies’ home. At this point, Mitzi’s wound had become severely infected, with the area raw, moist, bleeding, and emitting a strong smell. The cat was visibly suffering, with weight loss and reluctance to use her leg, which had wasted away due to disuse. Davies reiterated her financial struggles but was advised that immediate veterinary intervention was necessary.

Mitzi was then taken to the same veterinary clinic that had treated her earlier. The examination revealed that the tumour had grown considerably, measuring approximately 3 to 3.5 centimeters across and 6 to 6.5 centimeters in length. The cat’s overall health had deteriorated, but a successful amputation was performed a few days later. Post-operative tests confirmed that the tumour had not spread beyond the limb.

Magistrates described Davies’ failure to act promptly as gross negligence, which had caused Mitzi significant suffering and harm. While the case was serious enough to warrant custody, the court decided to impose a suspended prison sentence, considering Davies’ previous good character and the potential mental health impact of incarceration.

Following her operation, Mitzi was cared for by the RSPCA and made a good recovery. Sadly, however, she was found dead in her kennel five months later, a tragic end to her suffering.

Davies was sentenced to a 12-week prison term, suspended for 18 months. She was also ordered to pay costs and charges totaling £522. Additionally, she received a five-year ban on keeping any animals, which will expire in December 2026.