A WOMAN who caused unnecessary suffering to a cat has been sentenced by a court in Cornwall. 

Tina Michelle Thorn, aged 45, whose address was given as a holiday park in Polperro Road in Looe, appeared in front of magistrates at Truro Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, June 6 on one count of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal. 

The offence took place between June and August 2022 in Launceston, where Thorn caused unnecessary suffering to a protected animal, namely a black cat known as Peps, by failing to provide veterinary treatment regarding the tumour affecting the cat’s face, and she knew or ought reasonably to have known that the act would have that effect or be likely to do so. 

Thorn pleaded guilty to the offence when she appeared in front of magistrates in May this year.

During her sentencing, Thorn was made the subject of a community order under which she must have mental health treatment by or under the direction of We Are With You for 12 sessions.

She must also take part in a rehabilitation activity for a maximum of 20 days.

Thorn was also disqualified from keeping, owning, participating in the keeping of, or being a party to an arrangment to which she is entitled to control or influence the way in which domestic animals are kept for a period of 10 years.

An order was also made to seize five cats and a dog from her, but was suspended pending the results of an appeal.

Thorn was also made to pay a surcharge to fund victim services of £114 and pay costs of £200.