Cypriot lawyer sues UK authorities over pet seizure and death

Dr. Catherine Theodotou, a 79-year-old former lawyer of Cypriot descent, has initiated legal action against the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) and the London Metropolitan Police. The case concerns the seizure and subsequent death of her 17-month-old cat, Rita, while the animal was under the custody of the RSPCA. The dispute arose following a police operation in March 2026 at Theodotou's London residence, where authorities executed a search warrant and removed the cat based on allegations of animal mistreatment.

Theodotou asserts that the allegations were malicious and that Rita, who was born with disabilities in her hind legs and suffered from recurring bladder issues, was receiving proper veterinary care at the time. She claims that the police forcibly entered her home using an axe while she was recovering from breast cancer surgery. The owner maintains that the cat's health had been improving under her supervision. The case is currently being processed through the British court system, with Theodotou specifically seeking the return of the cat's remains as part of her ongoing legal battle against the organizations involved.