Don't feel guilty if you are ever forced to 'steal' a neglected/abused pet. The "owners" do NOT deserve to have any living thing under their care if they treat it badly or don't even care. I have been in situations where I have taken people's pets who were in AWFUL living conditions. Every single time I did it though, I felt relieved and happy that the animal was in a better home and would no longer suffer. Whenever something involves a living soul, I find myself looking past rules and regulations and just figuring out how I can help. This may get me into a bad situation one day, but I won't ever regret it.

Just my rambling thoughts.

Ben, I hope your brother can save the cat. I would like to put masking tape around that guy's neck. (Not your brother! The "owner" of the cat).