KEIRON THORNBURY

A Sunderland man who was intoxicated attacked his grandmother’s ginger tabby cat, Teddy Bear, by throwing it against a door in a fit of rage triggered by a football result.

Kieron Thornby, from Western Hill, Sunderland, caused severe injuries to the cat—including fractured ribs—while staying at his grandmother’s residence on Balmoral Drive in Woking on May 13, 2023.

At Guildford Crown Court, it was described how Thornby, aged 20, claimed he was alone with Teddy Bear when he heard loud noises and saw boxes falling onto the cat, which was crying out in pain.

He said he picked up the bloodied animal, but when the cat scratched him, he dropped it on the floor.

A post-mortem examination revealed the injuries were inconsistent with falling boxes, indicating the cat had suffered deliberate physical abuse.

The veterinarian explained that rib fractures are typical signs of abuse in cats and dogs, often due to forceful impacts such as being struck, kicked, or thrown.

Thornby maintained that a heavy box fell on Teddy Bear, but the injuries’ pattern and location did not match this explanation.

He also told authorities the cat was still active and capable of biting him after the incident, implying the injuries occurred afterward and remained unexplained.

The court heard the animal experienced significant suffering, including fear, distress, and pain, lasting for several minutes before it died.

Inspector Jo Bowling of the RSPCA examined the home and found the box Thornby described.

She reported that the only box present was a small plastic container measuring about 2 feet by 1 foot by 1 foot, containing crafting materials, which was easily lifted with one hand, and was not heavy.

This was contrary to Thornby’s statement that a large, heavy box had fallen on the cat.

During the sentencing, the court was told Thornby had a traumatic background and lacked maturity.

The judge condemned his actions, stating it was a terrible offence that involved killing a defenseless animal beloved by his grandmother, who had done no harm to him.

Despite his claim of no weapon use, Thornby admitted to throwing Teddy Bear against a door while intoxicated following disappointment over a football game.

The court found Thornby guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to the cat under the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

He was sentenced to three years in prison and was disqualified from owning animals for life.

Additionally, he was ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £228.