Stray kitten on the mend after being found with ears cut, feet and tail bound

DISTRICT HEIGHTS, Md. - A kitten found in District Heights is recovering after an extreme case of animal cruelty. Officials are very concerned that the person who would harm an innocent animal like this is still out there in the community.

Eight-month-old Hardy is in a foster home doing amazingly well after such a rough start to life.

"This poor little guy has gone through so much trauma," said Amy Pate, Hardy's foster mom. "Just to be so social and trusting, he's so resilient."

Animal services were called out to an apartment complex along Rochell Avenue in District Heights where Hardy was spotted roaming the halls severely injured.

His feet and tail had been bound with rubber bands.

"His ears were a rag - like shredded - when they came, so they had to amputate his ears," said Pate.

Some of Hardy's toes had to be amputated as well after his feet were constricted and blood flow was cut off.

Investigators want to find the person responsible for this animal cruelty case. In homes where animal cruelty is occurring, there could be other victims such as spouses or children.

"This is indicative of a violent personality and someone who isn't just going to stop after this cat and have violent tendencies that could progress towards people or other animals," said Brianna Grant of Alley Cat Rescue.

As for little Hardy, he will be up for adoption as soon as he is medically ready.

If you have any information about who may have done this, you are asked to call Prince George's County Animal Services at 301-780-7241.

Alley Cat Rescue is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in this case.