Owner admits leaving cat to suffer

Denise Mortimore, 42, of Glasshouse Lane, Exeter, was yesterday (23 October) fined and ordered to pay costs after she admitted causing unnecessary suffering to her cat at Exeter Magistrates' Court.

The court heard that black cat Diesel, aged three and a half years old, had been left without veterinary treatment for a skin condition which had left him with scabs and extensive fur loss across his head and back.

The RSPCA attended in June 2013 after receiving concerns about Diesel's welfare. 

Inspector Marije Zwager investigated and said:  "Although this was an isolated case we have to ensure that animals are prevented from suffering and that they receive veterinary treatment where needed.  Unfortunately Diesel's skin condition had been left for some time and could have been treated if he had just been taken to a vet."

Mortimore was fined £120 plus a victim surcharge of £20 and was ordered to pay £1,419 in costs.

Diesel received treatment and was cared for at the RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter.  He has since been found a new home.

Anyone interested in rehoming an animal from Little Valley Animal Shelter can visit www.rspca-littlevalley.org.uk or call 01392 439898.