NOEL CARSON FROM LARNE FACES COURT OVER HORRIFIC CAT FLEA INFESTATION

In a recent case heard at Ballymena Magistrates’ Court, Noel Carson, a resident of Larne, was ordered to surrender his pet cat, Tiger, following a disturbing discovery of severe neglect and a catastrophic flea infestation. The case drew attention to the dire conditions in which the animal was found and highlighted concerns about animal welfare in the area.

Animal welfare officers responded to reports from a concerned neighbor on the Glenarm Road in Larne. The neighbor had raised alarms about a strong, unpleasant smell emanating from Carson’s property, which was linked to the presence of a severely neglected cat. Upon inspection, officers observed Tiger suffering from a severe flea infestation, with the cat exhibiting signs of extreme distress and poor health. The feline was found to have extensive hair loss caused by incessant scratching, and its eyes were severely affected by conjunctivitis, with green discharge visible in both eyes. The condition of the cat was described by veterinarians as among the worst they had encountered, with the animal appearing profoundly lethargic and in a state of neglect.

Following the examination, Carson was asked to relinquish ownership of Tiger. He complied and signed the cat over to authorities, after which the animal was taken into care and subsequently rehomed to a new, loving environment. During the court proceedings, Carson admitted that he should have taken action sooner to address the animal’s suffering. He explained that he is reliant on state benefits, which he claimed limited his ability to seek prompt veterinary care. Despite this, the court emphasized the severity of the neglect and the urgent need for accountability.

As a result of the case, Carson was fined £150 and received a 12-month ban from keeping any animals. Additionally, he was ordered to pay court costs and an offender levy. The court’s judgment underscored the gravity of the situation, noting that the condition of Tiger at the time of seizure was a clear indication of neglect and poor animal welfare standards. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the vigilance required to prevent such cases of neglect from occurring in the community.