Police Scotland has launched an inquiry after a cat was discovered with significant injuries in the Ythanwells area near Huntly, injuries that officers say are consistent with damage caused by a snare-type trap. The animal was found on or around 10 July, and enquiries are ongoing to establish who was responsible and whether a snare was set in the locality.
What police are asking the public
Officers investigating the matter are seeking anyone who may have witnessed activity in and around Ythanwells during the relevant period, or who has knowledge of persons setting snares nearby. The appeal covers both direct witnesses and those who might have information about the presence of such devices in local fields, woodland or tracks.
"The use of snares became illegal in Scotland in 2024, partly due to the unnecessary suffering they cause not only to wildlife, but to domestic pets as shown on this occasion. This incident serves as proof of why these devices were banned and I would seek to remind the public that their continued use is not acceptable under any circumstance."
The quote above is from Constable Robson at Huntly Police Office, who is leading enquiries. Police emphasise the law change that came into force in 2024, making the manufacture, sale and use of snares illegal across Scotland because of the harm and distress they can inflict.
How to report information
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or use the 'Contact Us' form on the Police Scotland website. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can report through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting reference CR/0310153/26.
- Incident area: Ythanwells, near Huntly
- Approximate date: Around 10 July
- Police reference: CR/0310153/26
Local context and implications
For Aberdeenshire residents, this incident highlights ongoing tensions between land management practices and the protection of domestic animals and wildlife. Since the 2024 prohibition on snares, Police Scotland and animal-welfare groups have continued to stress that the devices are unlawful because of the suffering they can cause. The discovery of a seriously injured pet in the north-east underlines those concerns and may prompt renewed vigilance among local communities.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Ythanwells (near Huntly), Aberdeenshire |
| Reported injury | Cat found with serious injuries consistent with a snare |
| Date of incident | Believed to be around 10 July |
| Police contact | 101; Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 |
Police enquiries remain live. Any Aberdeenshire residents who noticed unusual activity, unfamiliar equipment or who regularly walk in fields and woodlands around Ythanwells are encouraged to check their own cameras and to report anything that might assist the investigation.
