Cat found injured in McKees Rocks adopted after recovering from firecracker abuse

A cat severely injured after firecrackers were strapped to its paw and ignited has been adopted.

The cat — a gray 3-year-old female tabby that was named Pickles by staff at Humane Animal Rescue — was found July 13 by two people along Highland Avenue in McKees Rocks. The incident is believed to have occurred on the Fourth of July.

The animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction whoever harmed the cat.

Pickles was adopted out to a couple selected from a number of online applications submitted by people interested in adopting the cat.

“Pickles found her forever family today,” Humane Rescue officials posted on social media. “Pickles new parents, Scott and Megan, are excited to welcome Pickles into their home. We’re sure she’ll get all the extra love she deserves.”

Soon after being adopted, Pickles got a Facebook page of her own.

“Pickles’ humans here — Pickles is home and getting to know her new surroundings!” the cat’s new owners posted Thursday. “We will post pictures here and keep everyone updated as the outpouring of support and love in the community is amazing. We feel privileged to be the ones to take care of Pickles and promise to spoil her (almost) rotten!”

Veterinarians who examined the cat said firecrackers were attached to the cat’s front left paw with rubber bands and ignited.

The paw had to be amputated after the wound became infected and infested with maggots, according to animal rescue officials.

Anyone with information about the case can contact Humane Animal Rescue at 412-345-7300, Ext. 245, or file a report online.