Millom Man Admits Animal Welfare Offence Involving Cats

Matthew Jonathan Sweeney, 44, of Queens Park, Millom, has admitted an animal welfare offence after failing to properly care for cats he was responsible for.
Sweeney pleaded guilty to an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, admitting that on August 14, 2024, he failed to provide the animals with a suitable environment and adequate care.
According to the charge, Sweeney did not take reasonable steps to protect the cats from pain, suffering, injury and disease. This included a failure to provide appropriate parasite control, leaving the animals at risk of illness and discomfort.
The court also heard that Sweeney failed to seek necessary veterinary treatment and attention for the cats. The animals were suffering from a range of health issues, including symptoms of cat flu, dental disease, injuries, ailments and physical deformities, yet no suitable veterinary care was accessed.
As a result of these failures, Sweeney was charged with a single offence relating to animal welfare. The case was heard by magistrates, where he entered his guilty plea.
Sweeney will be sentenced at South Cumbria Magistrates Court on December 8, when magistrates will consider the seriousness of the offence and decide on an appropriate penalty.