Cats Targeted in Rising Wave of Violence | Auckland News

Auckland News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 4, 2026 · 1m

Cats are becoming victims of escalating violence, with recent shootings like Pablo’s—hit six times with a pellet gun, costing over $22,000 in vet bills—and Isabele’s, shot four times with three pellets still lodged inside. Animal advocates warn this reflects a dangerous rise in anti-cat sentiment, misusing feral cat control efforts as justification for harming beloved pets. Government officials stress that predator-free programs target wildlife threats only, and urge the public to report any suspected animal abuse—because these aren’t isolated incidents; they’re part of a disturbing pattern…