The RSPCA has been inundated with complaints about a disturbing video showing West Ham defender Kurt Zouma kicking and slapping a cat.
The player, 27, has apologised after footage of the physical attack on the cat surfaced on Snapchat, and West Ham has also condemned their player’s actions.
In the video taken at his London home, the France international then chases the animal before throwing a pair of shoes at it and slapping its head.
“This is a very upsetting video. It's never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise,” a spokesperson for animal welfare charity the RSPCA said.
“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.”
A spokesperson added that the charity had received “lots of messages” regarding the clip, but said it could not comment on “individual matters” for legal reasons.
The agency has the power to bring prosecutions for animal cruelty. A Met Police spokesperson told the Standard that it was for the RSPCA to investigate such cases and would not be drawn on whether it was giving assistance to RSPCA investigators over the Zouma video.
After the clip emerged, West Ham criticised Zouma's actions.
“West Ham United unreservedly condemns the actions of our player, Kurt Zouma, in the video that has circulated,” the club said in a statement.
“We have spoken to Kurt and will be dealing with the matter internally, but we would like to make it clear that we in no way condone cruelty towards animals.”
Zouma, who joined the Hammers from Chelsea in August 2021, has apologised, saying there were no excuses for his behaviour.
“I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video,” Zouma said. “I 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.”
“Kicking, hitting and slapping cats or any other animal is not only illegal but will cause serious bodily harm,” said Dr Maggie Roberts, Director of Veterinary Services at Cats Protection in a statement.
“This cat may have been subjected to broken bones or other injuries through being mistreated in this way.
“We noticed that some people viewing the video online thought it was funny. We can assure them that this is not a laughing matter."
