Missouri Statewide Animal Neglect and Abuse Law

RSMo 578.009 makes it an offense to have custody of an animal and fail to provide adequate care, or knowingly abandon an animal without arrangements for its care. First convictions are class C misdemeanors and subsequent offenses class B misdemeanors. RSMo 578.012 covers intentional abuse, escalating to a class E felony for torture or repeat offenses. Courts may order restitution for shelter and veterinary costs and forfeiture of animals. Missouri's adequate-care standard (RSMo 578.005) applies statewide and supplies the minimum baseline that local hoarding ordinances must meet or exceed.

First neglect offense: class C misdemeanor (up to $500). Repeat: class B misdemeanor (up to $1,000). Aggravated abuse: class E felony with cost recovery and forfeiture.