COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Supreme Court will soon weigh in on whether stray cats and dogs deserve the same legal protections as household pets. The case stems from a 2021 incident where a man, Alonzo Kyles, allegedly poured bleach on a stray kitten found in his apartment building’s basement.
Ohio has outlawed animal cruelty since 1871. However, in the early 2000s, lawmakers recognized the need for stricter penalties for harming “companion animals” – typically pets kept inside homes. This distinction has left courts grappling with how to classify strays and “community cats” cared for by multiple residents.
The upcoming case centers on whether the stray kitten qualifies as a companion animal under the law. Kyles was initially convicted of felony-level cruelty, but an appeals court overturned the verdict, arguing the kitten wasn’t someone’s “kept” pet.
The Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office disagrees. They contend the law protects all cats and dogs, regardless of living situation. Animal welfare groups have joined the case, supporting the prosecutor’s interpretation.
Kyles argues the law’s wording clearly applies only to “kept” animals. He points out that other domesticated pets, like rabbits kept outdoors, wouldn’t be covered under this interpretation.
The Supreme Court’s decision will have national implications. The case is scheduled for oral arguments on July 23rd, which will be streamed live online.
