A 79-year-old former human rights lawyer is suing the RSPCA and the Metropolitan Police, alleging officers unlawfully seized her disabled cat, Rita, and used excessive force during the operation. Dr. Katherine Theodotou claims she was "pushed violently to the ground" when officers, accompanied by RSPCA inspectors, broke down her front door with an axe in March to confiscate the 17-month-old cat.
Dr. Theodotou, who also runs an animal sanctuary, denies mistreating Rita and states she has been the victim of "malicious reporting." She asserts that Rita, who was born with disabilities affecting her hind legs, is a pampered pet receiving extensive care, including private nursing and physiotherapy. She is seeking compensation for harassment, negligence, assault, battery, and trespass, and an order for Rita's return.
At a High Court hearing, Dr. Theodotou's legal team applied for an emergency injunction to prevent the RSPCA from euthanizing Rita. Her lawyer, Liam Wells, told the court that Dr. Theodotou has been a proponent of animal welfare for 30 years and is Rita's rightful owner since the cat's birth. He detailed that Rita requires specialized care due to her disabilities and was being well-cared for at home, receiving regular veterinary support. He noted that prior to the seizure, Rita had spent a few months at a veterinary surgery before returning home, and that two subsequent RSPCA visits found no issues with her care.
According to court documents, the RSPCA obtained a warrant following reports of concern for Rita's welfare. Dr. Theodotou's lawyer stated that at the time of the raid, she was recovering from breast cancer surgery and did not fully understand the presence of numerous uniformed officers. He alleged that as she attempted to open the door, officers pushed her to the ground, making forceful contact with her injured chest.
Representing the RSPCA, Mark Townsend countered that upon seizure, Rita was examined by a veterinarian and found to be in an "extremely concerning" condition, suggesting prolonged periods of inadequate hygiene and care. He stated the cat has since thrived with foster carers and that there are no plans for euthanasia. The judge refused the emergency injunction, finding no imminent risk of euthanasia, but the case is set for further hearings in both the magistrates' court, where the RSPCA will seek legal possession of Rita, and the High Court, to determine damages and ownership.
Dr. Theodotou's former law firm, Highgate Hill Solicitors, had previously received awards for its work. However, Dr. Theodotou was struck off the UK solicitors' register in 2022 after making dishonest statements during a professional insurance application.