A MUSSELBURGH man who caused his cat unnecessary suffering has been banned from owning an animal for 10 years.

Frith Mitchell, 44, of New Street, was sentenced at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Monday and was handed a community payback order of 85 hours of unpaid work in addition to the ban.

His court appearance followed an investigation by the Scottish SPCA.

Mitchell pleaded guilty to causing his cat, named Tiga, unnecessary suffering through failing to provide a suitable diet and failing to seek veterinary treatment.

Commenting on the investigation and court case, Scottish SPCA Inspector Stephanie McCrossan said: “Tiga was in a very poor skeletal condition.

"He was dragging his leg, which was protruding at an awkward angle, across the floor as he walked and it was clear he was in urgent need of veterinary treatment.

“After taking Tiga to the vet, we found out that he had several health issues which would have caused him to suffer unnecessarily for a prolonged period of time due to his owner failing to seek the necessary veterinary treatment he clearly required.

“Unfortunately the vet made the decision to put him to sleep due to the severity of his conditions.

“We are pleased that Mitchell has been dealt with by the courts and hope he will give serious consideration to his ability to care for animals in the future.”