One in four people in Wales witnessing animal cruelty online
The RSPCA warns of desensitisation for young people who witness the abuse
25% of people in Wales have seen animal abuse online, according to new RSPCA data.
Reports of social media animal cruelty are on track to hit a four-year high, raising concerns about desensitisation among young people.
The findings are part of the RSPCA's Animal Kindness Index, which also shows that 59% of Welsh households own a pet and 72% consider themselves animal lovers.
However, 79% report rising pet care costs, and 52% worry about affording vet bills.
Young people, particularly those aged 16-24, are disproportionately exposed to online animal cruelty, with over 40% of 16-17-year-olds witnessing such content. #
Since 2020, the RSPCA has received more than 2,000 reports of online animal abuse, with 2024 figures expected to be the highest in four years.
The Animal Kindness Index also highlights a potential "compassion gap" between generations, with younger people showing less favourable attitudes towards animal welfare.
The RSPCA calls for stronger action from social media companies and welcomes the new Online Safety Act 2023, which recognizes the dangers of animal abuse content.
The charity emphasises the need for clear guidance from Ofcom and urges social media platforms to go beyond legal obligations to protect users from animal cruelty.