A pensioner from Eltham has appeared in court after causing "unnecessary suffering" to a domestic cat called Fluffy.

Monica Bell admitted to causing and allowing Fluffy to suffer by failing to investigate and take remedial steps to address his declining weight and condition.

The 72-year-old caused and allowed the animal to suffer, and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it from happening - according to the courts.

Bell did not "seek immediate veterinary assistance" in respect of Fluffy's "collapsed state".

She also did not make suitable care arrangements to ensure that the needs of Fluffy were met - in that a suitable diet was needed to protect him from pain, suffering, injury and disease.

The court said Fluffy's suffering was unnecessary.

Bell, of Altash Way in Eltham, was ordered to pay £210 for the offences during a hearing at Bromley Magistrates' Court on May 3.

Under Section 34 of the Animal Welfare Act 2005, Bell was also disqualified from owning or keeping any animals for three years.

The balance must be paid in monthly instalments of £20 starting on July 1, 2022.

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