A family has been left heartbroken after their cat was put down just hours after her disappearance. Nineteen year old Gizzy had lived with Gareth Knowler and his family in East Malling, Kent, since she was a kitten.
The 41 year old said the tortoiseshell cat vanished from the garden at approximately 1.30pm and was transported to the RSPCA centre in Leybourne by a neighbour. The woman, who requested anonymity, was informed Gizzy would be kept for seven days while efforts were made to trace the owner.
Wanting to ensure this would absolutely happen, she verified again later and received the same reassurance. Gizzy was moved to Meopham Veterinary Hospital, where records noted she was emaciated, open-mouth breathing and had 'likely been a stray for some time'.
The RSPCA said efforts were made to reach the registered owners before Gizzy was euthanised, but the family was unable to respond in time.
A spokesperson said: "This is a very sad case and we really feel for Gizzy's owners. However, at nearly 19 years old and clearly in pain and discomfort, the decision to euthanise Gizzy on welfare grounds was made by an independent vet who decided this was the kindest thing to do to prevent any further suffering."
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Gareth's wife Lucy was only able to telephone the vet shortly after 5pm to arrange collection and was devastated to discover Gizzy had been put to sleep. He said: "She was on the phone hoping to say, 'can we come and get her'. And then they turn around and say they killed her, put her down on welfare grounds.
"She was just here. I'd just seen her. My cat was home at lunchtime. By teatime she was dead."
The family contests the veterinary assessment, maintaining that Gizzy's frail condition was attributable to old age and recent illness. Gareth added: "My cat was definitely beautiful. Definitely well looked after."
The couple believe the stress of transportation, firstly to the RSPCA and subsequently to Meopham, may have impacted Gizzy's breathing. They point to photographs taken the previous day showing the cat settled comfortably at home.
Gizzy had been part of the family since kittenhood and was born on Gareth and Lucy's son's second birthday. Her passing has profoundly affected the entire household, including the couple's two adult children, Joycie, 25, and Daniel, 21.
Gareth revealed that Joycie required a doctor's appointment the day following Gizzy's death due to the distress caused. He said: "My cat was microchipped. I thought the microchip was there to save cats from being put down. People out there need to know that microchips don't mean anything. They didn't even ask about a medical history or anything like that. Nothing was done."
When Gareth subsequently rang Meopham Veterinary Hospital, he admitted to raising his voice at members of staff. He acknowledged his reaction was inappropriate and revealed he got back in touch with the practice to offer his apologies.
Gizzy has since been cremated and her ashes returned to the family.
