West Ham star Zouma filmed abusing cat, apologises after public outrage
Editor’s Note: This story contains images which people may find disturbing
West Ham United’s Kurt Zouma has apologized for kicking and slapping a pet cat after the video surfaced on social media, sparking widespread public outcry directed at the French defender, including from animal welfare groups.
The 27-year-old is seen in the video attacking a Bengal cat in front of his brother, Yoan, with the animal in question seen desperately trying to escape.
Zouma, who drop-kicks the cat at one stage before knocking it out of the arms of a child in another clip and throwing designer shoes in its direction, has issued a groveling apology for his actions and insists the incident in question was an isolated one.
The social media video in question follows below. (WARNING: The footage contains scenes some may find disturbing.)
A video obtained by The Sun allegedly shows footballer Kurt Zouma kicking and hitting his cat.
It’s absolutely disgusting and disturbing footage. I hope he is prosecuted for animal cruelty. pic.twitter.com/3K7xMeHh5j
— Emily Hewertson ?? (@emilyhewertson) February 7, 2022
Zouma’s apology for abusing cat
The Hammers center back, who moved to West Ham from Chelsea in the summer of 2021, has said: “I want to apologize for my actions. There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
“I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video. 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 behavior was an isolated incident that will not happen again.”
Will Zouma face action?
The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill of 2021 means that animal abusers now face tougher sentences, with the worst offenders facing up to five years in jail.
No charges have been brought against Zouma, but the RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) is aware of the online footage.
Police have launched enquiries into the video of West Ham defender Kurt Zouma kicking his cat https://t.co/srFHHGIuuo
— Evening Standard (@standardnews) February 8, 2022
A spokesperson for the charity has said: “This is a very upsetting video. It’s never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise.”
Dr Maggie Roberts, of charity Cats Protection, added: “Any person seen or suspected of treating an animal badly, whether this is physical violence, neglect or any other form of cruelty should be reported to the RSPCA.
“The police work closely with the RSPCA to investigate cases of animal cruelty. Cats are sentient beings and experience pain and fear. Beating up a cat will only cause it to suffer physically and mentally.
“We noticed that some people viewing the video online thought it was funny. We can assure them that this is not a laughing matter.”
Will West Ham suspend Kurt Zouma?
The Premier League outfit has condemned the actions of its player, with the Hammers acting quickly after being made aware of the video.
A statement from the East London-based club reads: “West Ham United unreservedly condemns the actions of our player, Kurt Zouma, in the video that has circulated.
“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.”
