Abused kitten dies

SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - The stray cat that was assaulted by a 12-year-old boy this past Saturday has died, according to city spokeswoman Debbie George.

Just after 1 a.m., the animal shelter was notified by the kitten's foster family that the kitten was experiencing difficulty breathing, George said. The seven week old male kitten was rushed to the emergency vet, but passed away shortly thereafter.

A necropsy will be performed to determine whether or not the kitten died of injuries sustained in the attack or of some other illness. George said if it's found that the kitten died of injuries sustained in the attack, the animal cruelty charge against the accused 12-year-old could be upgraded to a felony.

The kitten was going to be put up for adoption Friday. If you were interested in giving the kitten a home, why not consider giving a good home to another kitten at the Suffolk Animal Shelter in honor of the kitten that didn't survive.

Those interested in adopting can visit Suffolk Animal Shelter at 124 Forest Glen Drive. Adoptable pets can be viewed on thier website .