Three people have been arrested after a missing cat's severed tail was posted through its owners' letterbox. The incident occurred after eight-year-old tabby Max vanished from outside his home last month.
Arrests and charges
A 37-year-old woman and two men, aged 47 and 75, are being questioned by police following Max's death. All three were arrested on suspicion of malicious communications and failing to prevent the causing of unnecessary suffering to an animal.
The 47-year-old man was also arrested on suspicion of assault and criminal damage. The 75-year-old man was additionally arrested on suspicion of witness intimidation and harassment. All three remain in police custody.
The discovery
Max disappeared after owner Louise put him in the front garden at around noon on Monday, September 14. The family had moved in July 2025, and Louise described Max as a 'real homebody' who rarely ventured further than neighbouring gardens.
By 7 pm Louise was panicking, and the couple put up missing posters the following day. Five days later, Lisa opened their post box and discovered Max's distinctive white-tipped tail. Louise said: 'I just heard Lisa screaming and crying. That is something I will never forget.'
Investigation and aftermath
After the letterbox incident, Max's tail was sent to a specialist vet in Liverpool for forensic examination. Six days after the tail was discovered, the cat's body was found by a dog walker in woods close to their home. Samples of Max's fur were taken by investigators as part of the search for DNA.
Insp Lucy Kevan, of Humberside Police, said: 'I understand a report of this nature causes concern amongst the community. However, I would like to provide reassurance that we believe this to be an isolated incident.'
The couple held a candlelit memorial for Max outside their flat beside his favourite tree, with mourners tying yellow ribbons around it. The ordeal also cast a shadow over Louise and Lisa's wedding plans after nine years together. They cancelled a planned pub celebration and buffet following the ceremony because they said they could no longer bear the thought of celebrating.
