Investigation Launched as Stray Cats with Severed Legs Found in Niihama, Japan

In the city of Niihama in Ehime Prefecture, Japan, a disturbing pattern has emerged involving stray cats found to be missing one leg. The situation has escalated into a police investigation as reports indicate that the number of affected cats has reached around ten, with new sightings continuing to surface over the past year.

The first of these unfortunate animals was discovered by a local resident in July 2024. The shocked witness described how the cat was seen hopping around, and a closer examination revealed it had lost its left front leg just below the elbow. After roughly a month of efforts, the cat was captured and taken to an animal hospital, where it underwent surgery resulting in amputation at the shoulder. Thankfully, the cat's condition was stable and not life-threatening.

Concern grew in the community after more instances of one-legged cats began to occur, prompting residents to alert the Niihama Police Station in April. Although the police initially reported not finding any criminal activity, the sightings persisted. In light of the situation, the Saijo Health Center's environmental health division got involved, suggesting potential abuse and refocusing the issue back to the police.

By August, another cat missing a leg was found, adding to the troubling tally. So far, three adult cats have received medical treatment, and while the injuries varied, they all indicated severance of the bones. Investigations also considered whether the animals might have been caught in traps intended for bigger game, but local hunting associations confirmed that no such traps had been deployed in the area.

A veterinarian in Saijo expressed disbelief at the nature of the injuries, noting that they were unlike anything he had previously encountered. The vet speculated on the possibility of abuse, as even illegal trapping would not typically lead to bone severing. He highlighted the unusual survival of these cats, given the severity of their wounds.

Under existing laws, capturing animals without permission or using illegal traps can lead to serious legal consequences. Officials from the Ministry of the Environment and local agricultural divisions noted that while there have been rare instances of pets caught in traps, steps are in place to minimize these occurrences.

As this investigation continues, a representative from the Niihama Police Station confirmed that they are exploring all possibilities. In an effort to protect the stray population, the health center has distributed flyers throughout the community, urging anyone with information about suspicious behaviors or injured cats to come forward.