I remember another story years ago of the exact same thing. It scares me to know there are sick people out there in this world.
I always had outdoor cats growing up and the worst they faced was getting hit by cars. As soon as I got my first cat as an adult (Taz) I swore I'd never have an outdoor cat again. And I have stood by that.
It always makes me sad to see kitties outside. Even our neighbors let their two cats out during the day. I still don't like it. We live near a busy main street. Previous occupants of that same house lost one of their cats to the busy road.

So glad Max is okay!!