Another heartbreaking incident of feline abuse has surfaced in Roodepoort, leaving a beloved pet severely injured and ultimately euthanized. Nikité Theunissen’s cat, Willow, suffered a pulverized jaw after a few days of roaming and had to be put to sleep. The disturbing story was shared with the Roodepoort Record by Herman Theunissen, Nikité’s father, who is determined to raise awareness about this incident in the Horizon View area.
The ordeal began when Willow went missing over the weekend of August 25, which was highly unusual as the cat never skipped a meal at home. On Tuesday morning, August 29, Willow miraculously dragged himself home, displaying signs of severe injuries.
The family promptly rushed Willow to their veterinarian, where they received the heartbreaking news that his injuries were not consistent with an animal attack but appeared to be the result of deliberate abuse. Willow’s jaw had been completely crushed, and all his teeth knocked out, suggesting he had been subjected to brutal force, possibly from a boot, brick, pipe, or a similar object.
Regrettably, the vet concluded that Willow’s injuries were beyond repair, and he was enduring extreme pain. Despite his terrible condition, Willow had summoned the last of his strength to return home.
Herman Theunissen expressed his anguish, saying, “In one foul swoop from a horrible human being, I watched my daughter’s heart break as we had to make the hardest choice to put him to sleep.” To their family, their pets are not just animals but cherished members who communicate in a different language.
Herman has launched an investigation into the incident, requesting access to any available CCTV footage or information about Willow’s attack. He is determined to retrace the cat’s movements and identify the perpetrator in the hope of raising awareness and seeking justice for this cruel act.
“If this is the case, I hope to warn others and have such a person suffer the repercussions of their half-human actions,” concluded Herman.
