Scottish SPCA warns over injuries to cats' tails in Helensburgh
Pet owners are being warned to be vigilant after two cats returned to their homes in Helensburgh with suspicious tail injuries.
The Scottish SPCA said the first case on 15 March involved the cat's tail being completely removed, leaving it bleeding and in pain.
It said the tail appeared to have been removed with one clean cut.
The SSPCA has now learned of a second cat in the area which had its tail skin peeled back from the underlying tissue.
Senior inspector Nicki Scott said: "The vet is puzzled at these incidents but said it is very unusual to see two similar injuries in such a short space of time."
She said the cat which lost its tail completely did not have any oil or dirty marks on it which would have been expected if it had been in an accident involving machinery.
It is now said to be making a good recovery.
"Sadly, cats are often the target of malicious attacks due to their friendly and free roaming nature and, unfortunately, there are people out there who take pleasure in harming a defenceless animal," Ms Scott said.
"We are warning pet owners to be on guard and to call us if they have any information which could help our inquiries."