Premier League defender Kurt Zouma has landed himself in hot water after video showing the West Ham center-back physically abusing his pet cat surfaced on the Internet.
The clip, which was obtained and made public by the Sun, shows the West Ham center-back committing an array of foul behavior, including chasing the animal, throwing a pair of shoes at it, smacking it in the face, and – arguably the worst – dropping the cat before kicking it across the kitchen.
This sparked public outrage and condemnation, with animal welfare charity the RSPCA releasing a public statement slamming the former Chelsea man's actions.
"This is a very upsetting video. It's never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise," an RSPCA spokesperson said, as per Sky Sports.
A video obtained by The Sun allegedly shows footballer Kurt Zouma kicking and hitting his cat.
— Emily Hewertson (@emilyhewertson) February 7, 2022
It's absolutely disgusting and disturbing footage. I hope he is prosecuted for animal cruelty. pic.twitter.com/3K7xMeHh5j
"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."
It is believed that the Kurt's brother Yoan Zouma, who plays for National League side Dagenham & Redbridge FC, filmed this incident before posting it on Snapchat on Sunday. The Hammers' ace has since issued an apology, admitting guilt, but has escaped an investigation and possible charges from the police.
"I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video," the center-back 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."
West Ham have "unreservedly condemned" Kurt Zouma for kicking his cat. He can't represent them on the field atm; for how long is up to Moyes and the board to decide. He also needs to undergo an education programme with the RSPCA. And that poor cat housed with somebody who cares.
— Henry Winter (@henrywinter) February 8, 2022
"What sort of a person are you to do something like that!?"
— talkSPORT (@talkSPORT) February 8, 2022
"How can you treat a living creature like that? And in front of your kids!"
"I dread to think what the kids watching him think is acceptable."
Laura Woods hits out at Kurt Zouma for mistreating a cat. pic.twitter.com/ylZfRStKmI
The London club, who will be in action in the Premier League on Tuesday, also issued a public statement in which they condemned their player's actions, stating that they do not condone animal abuse in any shape or form. This issue will be dealt internally, meaning the 27-year-old could be dropped for a few games, starting with their home clash vs Watford.