The 8-month old kitten named Hardy was found wandering around an apartment complex in District Height, Maryland. The cat has been tortured and abused by someone who cut its ears and tied up his limbs and tail, leaving the cat with very bad injuries.
The cat was taken in by Prince George’s County Animal Shelter. A staff veterinarian at Alley Cat Rescue, which is an organization that helps cats in need, saw Hardy at the shelter and pulled him out. Hardy’s rescuers wrote on Facebook about the little kitty:
“We have named our newest addition Hardy. This name means courageous and able to overcome difficult circumstances. This name is certainly fitting for this cat who has endured weeks of cruelty and yet is still affectionate and trusting of humans. His feet and tail had been bound with rubber bands, and his ears were mutilated beyond repair. His ears were a rag – like shredded – when they came, so they had to amputate his ears.”
The rescuers stated that Hardy was badly damaged, especially the toes so they had to be amputated. Hardy needed a surgery to remove the rubber band, but now he is doing well. The doctors stated that he was a fighter, and after the operation he was already purring and kneading the blanket.
“Our vet is applying new bandages to Hardy’s leg. His lower left leg was injured down to the bone and he will need continued treatment and monitoring.”
Despite his conditions, Hardy is a very affectionate cat that wants to be loved.
“Hardy loves all the support and compassion he has been receiving! But most of all he loves his treats his foster mom spoils with. He has been recovering very well and is becoming a social and active kitten.” wrote his rescuers.
A criminal investigation is in progress to find and prosecute the abusers of Hardy.