Pippi the cat, whose ears were cut off, reunited with owners

Pippi the cat, whose ears were cut off in what is believed to be an act of animal cruelty, has been returned to her owners. Photo/ Facebook

A cut whose ears were cut off in what the SPCA suspects was a deliberate act of animal cruelty has been reunited with her owners.

Pippi the cat was found in Sartors Ave in Northcross near Browns Bay last Friday.

An SPCA Auckland member rescued the cat, which received care at SPCA Auckland Animal Hospital before being reunited with its owners.

"She is a much loved family member and very happy to be at home," said SPCA spokeswoman Jessie Gilchrist.

"Our inspectors are still investigating and will keep trying to find the person responsible for this awful act of cruelty."

SPCA Auckland CEO Andrea Midgen said last week the organisation was investigating the incident.

Individuals can face three to five years imprisonment and fines of up to $100,000 for willful and reckless ill-treatment of animals.

"SPCA Auckland Inspectors are actively investigating this case and asking anyone who has information about this to please come forward," she said.

"Terrible pain and suffering has been inflicted on an innocent cat and it is important that those responsible for this cruelty are held accountable so it doesn't happen again."