Accidental animal crueltyI once invented a brilliant game - I'd sit at the top of the stairs and throw cat biscuits to the bottom. My cat would eat them, then I'd shake the box, and he would run up the stairs for more biscuits. Then - of course - I'd throw a biscuit back down to the bottom. I kept this going for about half an hour, amused at my little game, and all was fine until the cat vomited. I felt absolutely dreadful.
Have you accidentally been cruel to an animal?
This question has been revived from way, way, way back on the b3ta messageboard when it was all fields round here.
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rob, Thu 6 Dec 2007, 11:13)
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analoguesInfliction of pain or even discomfort on an animal that can show its feelings is evidence enough of ill will. Whatever it is that leads us to do that is the same impulse (just a different manifestation) that leads us to do the same to others.
EDIT: I think it boils down to accountability. A cat isn't going to inform on you. Genocide is made possible by the persecuted race having no recourse to justice and slavery is made possible by the enslaved race having no voice or rights. When you accept that there is no consequence of your cruelty, you have to fall back on morality and guilt. These are easily overcome.
(, Tue 11 Dec 2007, 12:47, Reply)
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