STEVE AND KATIE GATES OF SITTINGBOURNE SENTENCED FOR ANIMAL CRUELTY

Steven J Gates, born circa 1976, and Katie Gates, born 29 October 1985, residents of 67 Meads Avenue, Sittingbourne ME10 2BT, were convicted in 2025 of neglecting their elder cat, Thunder, leaving him in suffering due to an untreated abscess on his head.

The couple pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary pain and suffering to their 15-year-old feline, which was found with a head ulceration painful enough to hinder opening his mouth. Thunder was severely underweight.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer (ARO) Brian Milligan responded to a report from a member of the public about an injured black cat that was “wobbly on the back legs.” Upon arrival, he found Thunder barely able to stand and in urgent need of veterinary care.

During the court hearing, Officer Milligan recounted: “Mrs Gates said that her husband was bathing the wounds and he was going to call the vets that night when he got in from work. Mrs Gates said she had no money to pay for the vet bill.”

Thunder was assessed with a body condition score of one out of nine, indicating emaciation—a state of extreme thinness. His hips, ribs, and backbone were prominently visible through his fur.

Sadly, there was no option for treatment, and Thunder was humanely euthanized. A veterinarian explained that the abscess appeared to be a longstanding injury, likely from a cat bite, and noted that the cat also had pus and infection in both eyes and ear canal, alongside flea infestations.

The vet added, “The abscess would have been obvious to any reasonable person observing this cat for a month at least, and the problems with the eyes and ears would have been evident to any owner for at least seven days.”

Katie Gates claimed that Thunder had been straying and had only returned home about 12 days before he was put to sleep.

Both Gates admitted to neglecting their pet’s need for veterinary care and failing to fulfill the basic welfare needs of Thunder, in violation of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

After the court hearing, Deputy Chief Inspector Rutherford of the RSPCA emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership: “Pets rely on their owners to ensure their needs are met and they are kept safe and healthy. Ensuring they get appropriate veterinary care when needed is a key part of that responsibility.” She also highlighted support options available for those struggling with veterinary costs, including the RSPCA’s advice, charity assistance, and a dedicated helpline at 0300 123 0650.

The sentencing included 300 hours of unpaid work, a £200 fine each in court costs, a £114 victim surcharge, and a rehabilitation activity requirement. Additionally, Steve and Katie Gates are banned from keeping animals for 15 years, until April 2040.