MATTHEW DALY'S CRUELTY IN SOUTHPORT: CAT'S PAIN AND FRACTURES REVEAL HORRIFIC NEGLECT

In a disturbing case of animal cruelty, Matthew Daly, a resident of Southport, has been found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to his pet cat, Buddy. The incident came to light after an RSPCA investigation uncovered severe neglect and injury inflicted upon the defenseless feline.

Buddy was discovered in a dire state on the top floor of a flat located on Manchester Road, Southport, in January 2023. The cat was suffering from a severe flea allergy and was critically underweight, with his spine, ribs, and pelvic bones easily felt through his skin, indicating prolonged malnutrition and neglect. His fur was thinning significantly along his back and rear legs, and scabs along with live fleas were present, highlighting the extent of his untreated skin condition.

During the inspection, RSPCA inspector Anthony Joynes observed Buddy being gently handled by Daly, who claimed that the cat had been suffering from an ingrown nail. The inspector noted that Buddy’s front left paw was swollen, raising immediate concern. Daly agreed to surrender Buddy, who was then taken to a veterinary clinic for urgent examination. X-rays revealed multiple fractures in Buddy’s paw, specifically in four of the five metacarpal bones. The injuries were consistent with recent trauma, with fracture margins and new bone formation indicating that the injuries had occurred between 10 and 14 days prior.

The veterinarian confirmed that the deformity in Buddy’s left front leg was due to these fractures, which had been left untreated for an extended period. During questioning, Daly claimed that Buddy was an indoor cat owned by someone else, but he admitted to being responsible for his daily care. He also stated that he did not believe Buddy was in pain and insisted he would have sought veterinary help if he had thought the cat was suffering.

Following treatment, Buddy made a full recovery at the RSPCA’s Wirral and Chester Branch. Additionally, Daly signed over ownership of another cat, which was also adopted into a loving home alongside Buddy. The case highlighted the importance of responsible pet ownership and prompt veterinary care for injured animals.

Inspector Joynes expressed relief that Buddy was now safe, emphasizing the legal obligation of pet owners to monitor their animals’ health and seek immediate veterinary assistance when needed. The court proceedings resulted in Daly being fined £162 and receiving a two-year ban on keeping any animals, a restriction set to expire in May 2026. This case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and cruelty towards animals in Southport.