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Benito was living in fear and pain

If the vets hadn’t intervened when they did, Benito could’ve died. We were there for him this time, but in the summer there’ll be more animals that need us.

Benito, a grey domestic shorthair cat looking into the camera while crouched on the vets table.

Benito suffered so much for so long

The list of injuries this one-year-old cat had, including broken teeth and five skeletal fractures, is shocking. Benito’s previous owners had been intentionally abusive, and their excuses for his injuries didn’t make sense. When we were notified, the police seized him and passed him into our care.

We examined this poor cat at RSPCA Newbrook Farm Animal Centre, where we discovered that as well as his physical injuries, Benito had also suffered neurological damage. We started him on pain relief, antibiotics and physiotherapy, but knew his recovery would be a long one.

Benito the grey shorthair cat curled up on blankets tucked inside a black basket, while a vet examines him.
Benito the grey domestic shorthair laying down on an assortment of fleece blankets.

Benito was the perfect patient. Once he started to feel better we began to see a cheeky side to him.

Emma Finnimore, RSPCA Cattery Supervisor

It’s not just Benito suffering

For Benito to heal, we had to keep him still and do everything for him – it was all hands on deck for a long time. When he was well enough, we moved him into foster care. And when he charmed his way into being adopted, we weren’t surprised.

There will be many more cases of intentional cruelty this summer, there always are*. But you can bring hope to animals in need by supporting us today. Your donation will help us respond to the worst cases of cruelty and neglect, and your support will save animals’ lives. Together, we can rescue animals like Benito.

Benito laying on a fleece blanket looking scared with a red bandage on his back leg.

before

Benito was really shy at first

A portrait of a healthy and shiny Benito sat looking slightly above the camera.

Benito’s playful side came out

Benito is now surrounded by love

Benito is not living in fear or pain anymore. Instead, he’s part of a family that treats him with kindness and respect. We’re amazed by his recovery and inspired by his ability to trust again. By donating today, you’ll save animals from abuse this summer and, eventually, help them move on from it.

A grey domestic shorthair cat, Benito, stands looking healthy and shiny.

See the difference your donations make

From Bella to Berlioz, meet some of the animals we were able to save before it was too late.

*Based on incidents of cruelty reported to the RSPCA, between June and August 2024