so, you're saying we should be allowed to kidnap an abused child instead of calling the authorities?

the cat was not mistreated, just shy. Who are we, the Cat police? Call animal control to deal with an animal you honestly think has been abused. It's their job to figure this stuff out. If you just flat-out want the cat, at least have the decency to tell them you have it. Hiding the truth is the same as lying. In the end they may not care if you keep it, but you need to confirm that with them.

I'm just glad none of you live close to me. I might end up with one less cat after one of your judgemental visits. Clearly I mistreat Havoc, otherwise he wouldn't run funny and have a watery eye.

If shelters were as judgemental of potential owners as the rest of you, how many more animals would die?