04.12.2025 22:35
In France, a cat named Remi was sentenced to 'house arrest' by a court decision following a complaint from a neighbor. Remi became the first cat in the world to receive a prison sentence, while its owner will be fined 30 euros for each "garden invasion." The decision has raised concerns among animal welfare organizations.
An unusual case in the city of Agde in southern France has become one of the most talked-about topics in the country.
NEIGHBOR COMPLAINED, HOUSE ARREST DECISION FOR THE CAT
In a case brought to court due to a neighbor's complaint, a "house arrest" decision was made for a tabby cat named "Remi." The court prohibited the cat from going outside, and the decision was notably explained with a detailed 90-page justification.
Additionally, the court held the cat's owner, Dominique Valdes, responsible for "failing to protect the neighbor's property." The ruling stipulated a fine of 30 Euros for each future unauthorized visit by the cat.
UNUSUAL ALLEGATIONS
The basis of the complaint included reasons such as Remi "entering the neighbor's house and urinating on the blanket, leaving feces in the neighbor's garden, and leaving paw prints in still-wet liquid."
However, Valdes, who rejected the allegations, stated, "There are other cats in the neighborhood that look like Remi. The photos show many different cats passing through the same garden. This decision feels like a heavy judgment made without real evidence."
2,050 EUROS IN COMPENSATION
Valdes also reported that he has paid a total of 2,050 Euros in compensation to his neighbor for "disturbing the enjoyment of the garden" so far.
ANIMAL ASSOCIATIONS: THERE IS A PRECEDENT DANGER
The French Animal Protection Association stated that the decision is concerning, warning that if such cases increase, the freedom of cats to roam could be restricted. Association officials cautioned, "At this rate, a leash requirement for cats could even come up."
A WORLD FIRST
Moreover, Remi has gone down in history as the first cat to be placed under 'house arrest' by court order. The decision sparked significant debate on social media, while animal lovers have already rolled up their sleeves to create a support campaign for Remi.