A fundraising effort has been launched to help cover the costs of potentially life-saving treatment for a cat left battling horrific injuries sustained in what is believed to have been a “deliberate” firework attack.
The cat – known as Eddie – is thought to have sustained the injuries in the Banbrook Hill area of Armagh on Friday, October 17, with the owner now confirming that a firework had been tied to Eddie’s tail before it exploded.
Eddie has been left with severe internal burns, infection, and damage to his tail, pelvis, and possibly his spine. His owners have been left devastated by their beloved pet’s suffering.
Described as a “tiny, gentle 2.5kg cat”, the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says he has “already been through more pain than any animal should ever endure”.
He remains under the care of Newry-based animal welfare charity USPCA, who are “doing everything they can to save him” but, as it stands, no-one can say for sure if he will pull through.
Eddie is currently on a drip and will undergo major surgery on Monday. His tail is badly infected, and the infection may have spread toward his spine.
His rectum has also been damaged, and there’s a chance he may lose bowel control or the use of his back legs. However, the veterinary team won’t know how much can be saved until they operate.
A GoFundMe page has been launched by Leyla Yapicioz with a humble target of £250. All donations made through this appeal will go directly to the USPCA Newry towards costs incurred from Eddie’s surgery, treatment and ongoing care.
A description accompanying the fundraiser adds: “If you can donate — no matter how small — it will help this brave little boy get the lifesaving treatment he needs.
“And if you can’t donate, please share Eddie’s story to raise awareness and support the incredible work of the USPCA.
“Eddie deserves love, safety and a chance to heal. Please help us give him that.”
The case has been reported to both the PSNI and Animal Welfare, with the USPCA recording the incident as an act of cruelty.
Police are appealing for information following a report of cruelty to a cat in the Banbrook Hill area of Armagh.
Said a spokesperson for PSNI: “It is believed that on Friday the 17th of October 2025 between 12:00 and 14:00, a firework was tied to the tail of a white cat named Eddie.
“This firework exploded causing permanent damage to Eddie’s tail and he will require an operation to prevent his infection spreading to the rest of his body.
“If you have any information regarding this, please get in contact by phoning 101 and quoting serial 600 of 27/10/25.”
You can make a donation to the cost of Eddie’s treatment via GoFundMe here.
