Cat left abandoned in cat cage named 'Kitty Penitentiary' found floating on McKay Bay

YBOR CITY, Fla. - Animal abuse took another ugly turn on Wednesday, but the result was a happy ending. 

Authorities were contacted after a good Samaritan reported hearing a cat's cry on the waters of McKay Bay around 3 a.m., according to the Hillsborough County Animal Control.

The unidentified person retrieved the cat which was stuck inside a plastic airline-style pet carrier and set adrift on the water.

On the outside of the container the words "Kitty Penitentiary" were written by hand.  The female cat underwent veterinarian care and was found to have a number of metallic pellets in her chest and stomach area as if she was shot with a small caliber weapon.  She was listed in guarded condition.

Animal Services would like to speak to the person responsible for the animal abuse but are in need of the public's help to identify the person.  Call them at 813-744-5660 or email them at info@hillsboroughcounty.org.

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay has stepped forward with a cash reward for information leading to an arrest in this case.  Tips may remain anonymous.