The SPCA officials.
Image: Video screengrab
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA shared a devastating account of animal cruelty that left many heartbroken and outraged.
In a Facebook video, the organisation’s staff recounted discovering kittens abandoned in Eerste River, Cape Town, cruelly submerged in used oil.
In the post, the SPCA wrote: "The contents are graphic, but while many people can simply scroll past stories like these, our staff members cannot."
Inspector Wandile Nteleza and collections officer Andisile Booi said their hearts broke when they saw the kittens were alive but distressed. They were told the kittens were found in a bucket of oil.
"These innocent, tiny kittens, still alive and crying out in severe pain, had been placed in used oil. The kittens were rushed for veterinary care, but their injuries were so severe that the kindest and most humane decision was to end their suffering. No animal should ever have to endure such cruelty," posted the SPCA.
"The experience left a deep emotional impact on Wandile and Andisile. The sight of those helpless kittens suffering and the sound of their tiny cries, remain etched in their memories. This is the heartbreaking reality behind unwanted litters."
The Cape of Good Hope SPCA said this was why they emphasised sterilisation.
"Because when animals are unwanted, abandoned or seen as a burden, they often suffer in the most horrific ways imaginable. Sterilisation prevents suffering, it prevents unwanted litters, it prevents cruelty and it saves lives."
They requested Facebook users not ask: “How can people be so cruel?”.
"Help us make a difference by sponsoring a sterilisation."
In the comments section, Annelie Strauss wrote: "Anyone doing that or who are capable of doing that, is not human."
Roxie Stephany Halvorsen added: "The bravest souls for facing this daily and still marching forward! Ultimate respect to rescuers."
Chrizette Van Der Westhuizen added: "And may the guardian angels like Andisile and Wandile be blessed in abundance for their kind hearts and beautiful souls. There is still good people out there."