A Birmingham cat owner has been banned from keeping animals after a tragic case involving the neglect and death of one of her cats. Shaine Osborne, 29, of Church Road in Moseley, was described as “incompetent” by the RSPCA following an investigation into the welfare of her pets.
RSPCA animal rescue officer Katey Freckelton visited Osborne’s block of flats after concerns were raised about the condition of her two cats, Yogi and Grey, who were living in the communal garden. Upon inspection, the cats were found to be severely underweight, with a body condition score of just 1 out of 9. Freckelton noted the animals were emaciated, with ribs, spine, and hip bones clearly visible. Both cats had nasal discharge, and Grey was suffering from flystrike with a matted rear end infested with flies.
Osborne admitted the cats belonged to her and allowed the RSPCA officer to take them to a vet. Unfortunately, Yogi’s condition worsened and he semi-collapsed during triage. With Osborne’s consent, Yogi was humanely euthanised due to the severity of his condition and suffering. Grey tested positive for parvovirus but was treated and later rehomed by the charity.
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Osborne pleaded guilty to multiple animal welfare offences, including failing to provide adequate food and water, lacking parasite control, and not addressing flystrike and maggot infestation. She was sentenced at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court to a four-year ban on keeping animals, which cannot be appealed for two years. In addition, she received a 12-month community order with 40 hours of unpaid work, a £180 fine, and a £114 victim surcharge.
In court, it was acknowledged that Osborne was not deliberately cruel but had been incompetent in caring for her cats and had regretted not seeking veterinary help sooner.
RSPCA officer Freckelton urged all pet owners to ensure their animals receive proper care, emphasizing that pets rely entirely on their owners for food, water, and medical attention. “Sadly, these cats were denied basic care, including nutrition, hydration, and essential veterinary treatment,” she said.