Police in the southern German town of Bad Mergentheim are investigating an act of animal cruelty after a family's cat returned home with a swastika drawn in ink on its ear and a patch of fur shaved from its belly. The animal left the house unharmed on the evening of 27 June and came back with the markings early the following morning, authorities said.
Investigators are probing the use of unconstitutional symbols alongside the animal welfare offences. The family, who are of Iranian origin and have lived in Bad Mergentheim for many years, discovered the mutilation when the cat returned from its outdoor excursion.
In response to the incident, PETA has offered a reward of 500 euros for information leading to the identification of those responsible. The animal rights group urged witnesses to come forward. Police have appealed for public assistance in tracing the perpetrators.