when she sobers up? My neighbor is an alcoholic who goes on drinking binges. Her cat is from the same litter as mine and I would like to keep her. The neighbor knows I have the cat. I don't want it put down. What advice can you give me, legal or otherwise?
Thanks
2007-09-02 23:19:28 · 14 answers · asked by Prof Fruitcake 6 in Pets ➔ Cats
When my neighbor drinks she picks her cat up by the tail and forgets to feed her.
2007-09-02 23:20:32 · update #1
Do not give the cat back. That much is for sure.
you could suggest that you look after the cat while she is unable to do so . Suggest the return when she is sober.
The cat remains safe while you continue your aim of full ownership .
Failing that call the authorities and site animal violence and cruelty.
Most importantly she doesnt get back custody of this animal period .
2007-09-02 23:32:24 · answer #1 · answered by matt culling 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
you have two choices,
either keep the cat and wait and see if she calls the police, which she technically has the right to do, or if she lets you have the cat and doesn't say anything about it
you dont really have the right to keep the cat as its hers, it doesn't matter that its from your litter, or that she is cruel to it
if she wants it back you have to give it to her or face the consequences of what she may do,
however, if she dosnt say anything then its pretty much your choice if you feel its ok to keep it from now on and not let it out so as to be safe from her
however you should to report her to the animal care authorities in your area if she wants the cat back
they wont be able to do anything right away, they need 'proof', to even consider taking action, but they will probably have a word with her, although thats unlikely to change her as you probably know
although shes clearly a horrible person
theres not much else you can do except make sure in future when you give cats away they go to a loving home and nice people you know well
and maybe watch her regularly and take notes of all you see and hear where this is concerned and keep informing them, the more complaints against someone the more likely it is someone will take notice and do something and
of course keep being kind to the cat if it is with her (unless shes told you to stay away from it) as it clearly needs it
2007-09-03 09:00:26 · answer #2 · answered by froufrou 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why would she be put down? Just keep the cat! If your neighbour claims it, tell her that she should claim it legally, and that of course she doesn't stand a chance, because animal control will charge her with abuse. Don't be aggressive, explain to her calmly that this is the best for the cat, that you know she wants what's best for the cat, but she can't provide it because she need to solve her own issues right now. Tell her that she can visit the cat and see her when she feels like it (that's fair), as long as she is sobre.
2007-09-03 07:33:28 · answer #3 · answered by cpinatsi 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, you don't have to give her back. This woman shouldn't have pets that she can't care for.
If your neighbour complains then get in touch with an animal welfare organisation and tell them the story - they should be able to help you. However it would help if you had some kind of evidence. If there are any marks on the kitty I'd take her to the vets and get it documented.
Well done for caring, the animals of this world need more people like you.
2007-09-03 06:29:45 · answer #4 · answered by Snake Lady 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Since the cat is being abused and may have it's life in danger, I'd have no qualms about finding another home for it and not giving it back to the person.
Legally, if she brings this to court, you can claim it was for the safety of the cat, and they can't touch you on that one. It's far easier than trying to bring abuse charges against her.
2007-09-03 20:49:37 · answer #5 · answered by hudsongray 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Legally the cat is hers but you have done the right thing-do not give that poor cat back to that evil witch.Call the RSPCA and ask for advice.
2007-09-03 06:29:09 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Unfortunately,you would have to prove abuse and neglect to the authorities,they are not just going to take your word for it.
It sucks,yes but unless you have proof then regardless of your good intentions the law can force you to return the cat to it's rightful/wrongful owner.
2007-09-03 06:27:51 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have two cats and i think you definately did the RIGHT thing . You having it is much better than it being put down and if you can prove the danger that its in it should be fine .
2007-09-03 07:02:07 · answer #8 · answered by Anna W 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You really should give the cat back to her, even if she is a drinker. It's her cat and she bought it. However, if you REALLY have a problem with her, call the RSPCA or something and get them to sort it out.
Remember, you've pretty much stolen her cat.
2007-09-03 06:28:43 · answer #9 · answered by sυnnỵ 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I would talk to an animal control officer they will be able to tell you what you leagally can do. it would be horriable if you got slapped with a lawsuit and the cat had to go back with that person.
2007-09-03 08:15:01 · answer #10 · answered by macleod709 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋