BBC News | ENGLAND | Cat killed in firework attack

A cat has become the first fatality of the fireworks season after suffering severe burns and a deep wound in a suspected firework attack in Oldham, Greater Manchester.

The incident has prompted the RSPCA to remind pet owners to protect their animals and follow the firework code.

It is believed a firework had been attached to the tail of four-year-old tabby Jay.

It later had to be put down because its injuries were so serious.

RSPCA inspector Catherine Byrnes said: "He was in agony.

'Animal cruelty'

"You could not touch him or pick him up and he screamed all the way to the clinic.

"They did everything to try and save him, but he was so wounded that eventually they had to put him down which is always a last resort."

Jay the cat
Jay suffered horrific injuries and had to be put down

She added: "This is an atrocious case of animal cruelty.

"His injuries were horrific and we believe he may have had a firework attached to his tail."

Chris Laurence, the charity's chief veterinary officer, said: "Each year we are horrified at the number of animals brought to us for emergency care as a result of firework injuries.

Firework guidelines

"The vast majority of these injuries could be avoided if more care was taken when planning celebrations."

Mr Laurence added that many animals are also treated for injuries caused by blatant acts of cruelty.

Last year a kitten narrowly escaped being burnt alive after being left in a sealed box on an unlit bonfire in Buckinghamshire.

Four other kittens were orphaned when their mother, a stray cat, ran in front of a car and was killed after being frightened by a firework in Gwent.

The RSPCA has issued a guide to safeguarding animals during the firework season:

Never light fireworks near animals

Keep all pets indoors after dark

Ask a vet to provide a sedative for a pet dog that is particularly sensitive to noise

Move rabbits and other outdoor pets to a garage or outbuilding

Keep curtains closed and camouflage the noise of fireworks by leaving a TV or radio on

Build bonfires as late as possible and gently disturb the foundations a few hours before lighting to ensure there are no animals such as hedgehogs inside

Ensure pets have a collar and tag or even a microchip in case they are scared by fireworks and bolt.


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