Appeal after much-loved cat severely injured in Hartlepool

A much-loved family cat had to be put to sleep after he was found with significant injuries - and officers are trying to find those responsible.

Five-year-old Hugo left his home address around the Murray Street area of Hartlepool at around 5.30am on Friday 28^th February 2025 but returned home at around 6.10pm with severe injuries.

Some of Hugo’s fur was shaved off and he had a serious leg wound.

Hugo was taken to the emergency vets where it was discovered that he had also suffered injuries from a rope around his neck.

Tragically, due to the severity of his injuries, Hugo had to be put to sleep leaving his family devastated.

Officers believe this was a deliberate act of cruelty and are appealing for anyone with any CCTV footage or information about the incident to call 101, quoting reference number 035548.