California authorities are hunting for a man who was caught on camera dumping a badly injured cat into a dumpster.
Surveillance footage captured the man throwing the cat, who has been named Willow, into a dumpster from a white bag in Laguna Hills, California, on Monday night.
The man could be seen staggering around his vehicle as he retrieved the wounded animal before throwing her onto the top of the trash can and driving off.
Willow was found 15 hours later and just minutes before refuse workers were set to empty the bin.
She was immediately taken to a nearby animal hospital for evaluation and treatment, Mission Viejo Animal Services said she had suffered extensive injuries.
Animal control investigators have been able to identify the suspect’s vehicle as a light blue or gray Volkswagen Tigua.
Mission Viejo Animal Services said in a statement: ‘Despite this heartbreaking betrayal, Willow continues to show immense affection to the veterinary staff caring for her, purring and seeking comfort from those providing her with kindness and affection.’
The group is asking anyone with information to contact them on 949-470-3045 and shared the horrifying clip to their social media.
One person commented on the video: ‘Only a garbage human would do this. I hope they find him and press charges.’
Another added: ‘People are disgusting and cruel. Thank you for helping Willow.’
One other commented: ‘Poor baby. So glad the cat was saved. Horrible people out there.’