Cruel cruelty to animals in Upper Austria: Mila the cat returns home injured!

Cruel cruelty to animals in Upper Austria: Mila the cat returns home injured!

In Senftenbach, Upper Austria, the cat “Mila” returned home seriously injured on Sunday. The animal's owner noticed that Mila was distraught and limping. She barely allowed herself to be touched, which caused further concern. An examination revealed shaved areas and a large bruise on his back. A veterinarian quickly determined that the injuries were likely intentionally inflicted. As a result of this disturbing discovery, police have launched an investigation into suspected animal cruelty. The authorities are calling on the public to report information in order to clarify the case. You can contact the Aurolzmünster police station on 059133 / 4242.

This incident is particularly alarming as it takes place in a context in which the number of cases of animal cruelty in Austria is noticeably increasing. More and more people are turning to the animal protection ombudsman in Upper Austria. Last year, 612 inquiries were registered there, often concerning cats, dogs and farm animals. The most common concerns relate to dogs in hot cars, abuses in the online puppy trade and massive hygiene deficiencies in stables.

Animal Cruelty Statistics

The increase in administrative criminal proceedings in this area is also worrying. While only 86 cases in dogs and cats were reported in 2020, that number tripled last year. State Councilor Michael Lindner from the SPÖ emphasizes that existing laws cannot solve all problems and that raising public awareness of animal protection is of the utmost importance.

In this context, Ombudswoman Cornelia Rouha-Mülleder is calling for the laws against cruel breeding of animals to be clearly tightened. The health of the animals should therefore be the priority and not just their external appearance. There are also reports of abuses in livestock farming, such as cattle being kept on chains without sufficient exercise.

Incident involving abuses in livestock farming

A particularly scandalous incident in Lower Austria shows the urgency of reforms in animal protection. A 49-year-old farmer is suspected of improperly treating sick animals. These animals were kept in pens covered with manure. The case is currently being heard at the St. Pölten regional court and the farmer must complete 140 hours of community service. The Association Against Animal Factories (VGT) has expressed its disappointment with the verdict and points to further abuses in animal husbandry.

The incidents surrounding Mila and the general trend towards an increase in animal cruelty pose major challenges for both authorities and society. Only through a sensitive and collaborative approach can the protection and well-being of the animals be guaranteed.