Strangled kittens likely caught in backyard rabbit traps

Calgary police are investigating after kittens were allegedly strangled in the neighbourhood of Radisson Heights.

Police initially believed the cats were poisoned and thrown into a garbage bin on the 2800 block of 14 Avenue S.E. Later, police said they were strangled.

"Two of the kittens were recovered deceased, however, one of the animals was able to escape and is likely in the area and in extreme medical distress," police said in a press release.

"The young, black cat, was last seen by a utility worker who saved it from the dumpster, but unfortunately the animal was able to run away and has not been seen since."

The utility worker called police, who later found about 15 rabbits running free in the backyard "living in deplorable conditions" among feces.

Traps had been set for the rabbits, who were likely raised for food, police said.

Police are asking people in the area to check their property for the black cat and call police or a veterinarian if it's found. They are also looking for the owners of the cats, who may have entered the backyard because of the rabbits and got caught in the traps.

The Calgary Humane Society has seized all the rabbits but one, and they are trying to catch it.

Police are interviewing a 75-year-old man. No charges have been laid.