A pensioner who failed to look after her cat Charlie properly has been disqualified from keeping animals.

Lorraine Popli, 68, of Hazel Grove, Linthwaite, pleaded guilty at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court to failing to obtain the necessary dental care for the 11-year-old black and white cat between September 1, 2014 and December 10, 2014.

She appeared in court with a social worker to assist her.

Phil Brown, prosecuting, on behalf of the RSPCA, said she had looked after the black and white pet since he was a kitten.

It had developed gingivitis, a painful condition and a vet had estimated that it would need expensive treatment estimated at £200 and involving a general anaesthetic.

Mr Brown said: “Regrettably, treatment was not given to the cat which had advanced fractures to numerous teeth.

“It had to be placed under general anaesthetic to alleviate its suffering and as a result of which being undertaken by the society it has made a good recovery.

“She has agreed to sign over Charlie to the RSPCA.”

Jonathan Slavinsky, in mitigation, said: “Charlie was the life and soul of Miss Popli’s life but problems began after her health started to decline.

“She was placed in respite care and neighbours looked after the cat and noticed problems.

“Miss Popli was struggling financially, she is completely isolated and on her own.

Kirklees Magistrates Court, Huddersfield.
Kirklees Magistrates Court, Huddersfield.

“This lady is committed to this cat.

“She said to me today that she accepts that Charlie has to be signed over to the RSPCA.

“She concedes that she is not able to look after pets. This was a case of short term neglect.”

District Judge Michael Fanning said: “I have to ban you from keeping animals.

“This situation got out of hand. Charlie will not have been a happy cat for that time.

“You are disqualified from keeping animals."