A man has been banned from owning cats for five years after he admitted abusing a cat at court.

Christopher Haroun, 25, appeared at Basildon Magistrates Court on Thursday where he admitted the offence.

The court heard between January 2 and January 6 in Basildon, Haroun had kicked a cat, hit it with a broom and thrown objects at it which caused it unnecessary suffering to it.

Magistrates handed him a community order which requires him to participate in a rehabilitation activity for 20 days.

He must also carry out 300 hours of unpaid work within the next 12 months.

Haroun, of Russell Place, London, has been banned from owning a cat, keeping one or being party to owning one for the next five years and may not apply for the order to be terminated for at least two years.

He was also ordered to pay £150 compensation, a victim surcharge of £85 and £85 in costs.

If you suspect someone may be guilty of animal abuse, you can visit the RSPCA website to report cruelty.