Evidence suggests that cruelty to animals may be an early sign of psychopathy or antisocial personality disorder. One of the stranger characteristics of psychopaths is their choice of pets. They are almost never cat people because unlike dogs, cats are willful and not easy to manipulate. When looking at the case of the accused "Cat Killer" of Saltillo, early warning signs of psychopathy are present.

ADAC has filed complaints against an individual accused of killing three kittens he received through adoption. Investigators completed an assessment and moved on to formal hearings. Evidence was brought forth by a friend of the accused documenting the abuse of a kitten.

Despite this evidence and many complaints, after two years of hearings, a judge decided that because this individual had no previous criminal record, he was not charged. This is disappointing for several reasons. Not only has this individual launched threats through social media to continue mistreating animals, he has allegedly begun harassing women. This is a typical progression of psychopathy as individuals make the jump from abusing animals to abusing people.

ADAC continues to appeal to the individual to stop hurting animals and to work within the legal system regarding penalties for those convicted of animal abuse. This, in conjunction with better support for those with mental health issues, would make this community, and our world, a much safer place. 

It has been proven scientifically that animals are living beings capable of feeling and experiencing physical pain due to cruelty and torture. They have a central nervous system and feel emotions similar to those of human beings. The Law of Protection and Treatment of Animals  of Coahuila explicitly acknowledges that animals feel pain. However, there are no provisions suggesting animals suffer psychologically. ADAC is trying to change this.

In October of 2020, Alma Salinas, President of ADAC went to State Congress to deliver a city initiative. If this initiative is passed, it opens the door for stricter penalties for those found guilty of animal abuse including imprisonment. It simply puts into law what animal lovers have known all along - animals suffer emotionally when they are mistreated, and respond positively when they are loved and respected. They communicate their wants and needs to us, and as animal owners, it is our responsibility to ensure they are safe, healthy, comfortable, and loved.