Multiple kittens injured, 2 dead in disturbing string of animal abuse cases in Calgary

WARNING: Details in this story are graphic and may be disturbing to some readers

The Calgary Humane Society is investigating after a dead kitten was found in the southwest community of Kingsland on Monday.

Peace officers found the feline zip-tied to a fence.

A necropsy determined the animal suffered blunt force trauma to its head and abdomen.

The Calgary Humane Society says the disturbing discovery is the most recent in a series of "similar events" in the areas of Sandy Beach and Kingsland this summer. 

Officials say eight kittens in total, all in the range of six to eight weeks old, have been found in public spaces in "various states of distress" since May 30. Of those, two are dead. 

"In several of these cases, kittens’ paws have been bound and they have been covered in a tar-like substance," said the humane society.

Brad Nichols, director of enforcement at Calgary Humane Society, says it's incredibly concerning to see an isolated incident of this nature, let alone half a dozen.

"Given the link between animal abuse and interpersonal violence, this concern transcends animal welfare," he said.  

Photos show three of six kittens that the Calgary Humane Society says were found in public spaces in "various states of distress" since May 30, 2024. (Calgary Humane Society handout) Anyone who has more information about where the kittens came from or who is responsible for the violence against them is asked to call the humane society at 403-205-4455, or to submit a report online at CalgaryHumane.ca.

The humane society is also using the incident as a reminder for the public to keep their cats inside.

"There is a bylaw prohibiting cats from running at large, but this may serve as a worst-case scenario on the risks posed to roaming cats, which would also include traffic, predation and disease," said a news release.

The Calgary Police Service is assisting the humane society in its investigation.

"We can confirm no one is in custody," police said in a statement. "The Humane Society enforces the Animal Protection Act of Alberta and police become involved if there is evidence to support criminal charges."