Featured Image Credit: @kurtzouma/Instagram
Topics: Sport, Football, UK News, no-article-matching, RSPCA
Shola Lee
Topics: Sport, Football, UK News, no-article-matching, RSPCA
The RSPCA has spoken out following footage of West Ham footballer Kurt Zouma hitting a cat.
In a statement, the animal welfare charity has condemned Zouma's actions.
The news comes after the 'very upsetting' video emerged of Zouma kicking and slapping a cat. Reportedly, the video shows Zouma slapping the cat as laughter is heard in the background. He then proceeds to chase the cat before throwing a pair of shoes towards it and slapping it on the head.
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Zouma, who transferred to West Ham from Chelsea last August, earlier spoke out about the footage and apologised for his actions, saying 'there are no excuses' for his behavior and expressing his sincere 'regret'.
The footballer added he was 'deeply sorry' and that he 'would like to assure everyone that our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy. They are loved and cherished by our entire family, and this behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again'.
Following the emergence of the clip, a spokesperson for the RSPCA said: 'This is a very upsetting video. It’s never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise.
'We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and we would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare'.
The RSPCA weren't the only ones to respond to the video, with Dr Maggie Roberts, who is director of Veterinary Services and Cats Protection, also making a statement.
'The police work closely with the RSPCA to investigate cases of animal cruelty', she said, adding, 'Kicking, hitting and slapping cats or any other animal is not only illegal but will cause serious bodily harm'.
Zouma's club West Ham also shared these sentiments and said the matter would be dealt with 'internally'.
In a statement, the club said: 'West Ham United unreservedly condemns the actions of our player, Kurt Zouma, in the video that has circulated'.
The club added, 'we would like to make it clear that we in no way condone cruelty towards animals'.
If you see an animal in distress and/or in need of help, contact the RSPCA's 24-hour animal cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 or visit their website for further advice