HOUSTON — East End pet owners are on alert after several cats were recently found dismembered but authorities said it's likely not a bad actor behind it but another animal.
At the intersection of Park Drive and Lockwood in Houston's East End, Samuel Gordon said he found what was left of his black cat named Malder.
"I found part of him cut in half," Gordon said.
He said his cat isn't the only one to meet a similar fate in the surrounding areas. He said seeing such mutilation, he's concerned someone is behind it.
"It hurt me a lot. And I felt bad because he was like a part of my family. And it disgusts me to see something like that," Gordon said.
Authorities said they were aware after receiving two reports of dismembered deceased cats in the area. The Houston SPCA Animal cruelty investigators responded.
“After an initial investigation, it is believed this was caused by an animal attack, possibly coyotes, as the area where the incident occurred has a very high population of feral cats," the SPCA said.
"I don’t think coyotes would do that," Gordon said.
A third report was also filed and Houston SPCA, based on facts gathered, said it believes that was also caused by and animal attack. Gordon said he typically lets his cats roam freely. As for his other two cats, they'll now spend their days inside.
Houston police echoed the Houston SPCA saying they don't believe the cat deaths are from "human action." The Houston SPCA encourages the community to file reports on cases of suspected animal cruelty.
Here's the full Houston SPCA statement:
"Earlier this week, a Houston SPCA Animal Cruelty Investigator responded to the East End after a cruelty report was filed with the animal rescue organization that two deceased cats were dismembered. After an initial investigation, it is believed this was caused by an animal attack, possibly coyotes, as the area where the incident occurred has a very high population of feral cats.
"Houston SPCA was made aware of a third similar incident. Based on the current facts gathered, it is believed that this too was caused by an animal attack. The case will remain open pending further investigation if warranted.
"The Houston SPCA encourages the community to file a report for suspected animal cruelty at 713-869-7722 or HoustonSPCA.org."