ANIMAL lovers in Devizes have been outraged to find out that a cat that was kicked into the path of a car by two girls is the same one that was attacked just days later.

Timmy was still recovering from his ordeal of being thrown and kicked into London Road on January 11 when he was attacked again and had his back legs tied together with a plastic bag on January 23.

Devizes police have stepped up patrols around the Quakers Walk estate and are following up a number of leads but are yet to make any arrests.

Sgt Pete Foster said: “This is a really horrible thing to happen. We are taking it very seriously.

“People have been outraged by what has happened. It is nasty that this same cat has been hurt again.

“We would like to hear from anyone who has any information. We have spoken to a number of people but as yet no-one has been arrested.”

A friend of Timmy’s owner said on social media: “This is the same cat that was thrown into the road, the people concerned have been stupid enough to Snapchat the second incident and it has been reported to the police.

“The cat is currently on house arrest getting very bored but is on the mend. It’s an awful thing to have happened and he’s the most precious boy.”

People reacted with anger and horror that the black and white cat had been hurt for a second time and a number said they were frightened to let their own pets out.

One said: “That’s horrendous. I would love to get my hands on the awful people. I know two wrongs don’t make a right but so wicked. I think there needs to be a lot more Neighbourhood Watch around.”

Another said: “Sick. What the hell is wrong with some people?”

While a third said: “Sickens me to the stomach, their parents must be so proud of these yobs.”

And another added: “Utter psychos. I just never get how some people think it’s fun/funny to do things like this. Animal torturers’ crimes usually escalate. They need catching ASAP. Keep your cats in people.”

Another summed it up: “Poor, poor cat. All his faith in humans must be totally destroyed now. Bless his soul.”

An anxious owner said: “Such cruel and sick people, it’s wrong that people feel unable to have their dogs or cats out in their gardens with fear that they may be taken.”