West Ham defender Kurt Zouma will be prosecuted under the UK's Animal Welfare Act following a video which showed him kicking his cat. 

The RSPCA has begun the prosecution process, after the 27-year old was filmed by his brother Yoan kicking his pet cat across his kitchen.

Zouma's two cats remain in the care of the RSPCA following the incident for which he apologised and was fined by his club.

In a statement released after the February incident, Zouma claimed to be "deeply sorry", adding, "I would like to assure everyone that our two cats are perfectly fine and healthy.

"They are loved and cherished by our entire family, and this behaviour was an isolated incident that will not happen again."

Kurt Zouma was fined £250,000 (€297k) by the Hammers, but continued to play and was defended frequently by his manager, David Moyes.

A date for the Zouma brothers' first court appearance is still to be set.

Yoan Zouma plays for National League side Dagenham & Redbridge, and he's been charged for his part in the incident as well.

A club statement read:

Whilst Yoan continues to fully co-operate with the RSPCA, as this matter has now progressed further, Dagenham & Redbridge FC feel it is no longer appropriate for either Yoan or the Club to make any further statement.

Dagenham & Redbridge FC maintain their position in that the club continues to condemn all animal cruelty.

Since the allegation, and whilst investigations were taking place, Dagenham & Redbridge FC took the decision that Yoan should not play football for the club. 

Four weeks have now elapsed however since the incident, and the club feels that any further suspension from the team would be detrimental to both the club and Yoan. A decision has been made therefore for Yoan to be available to play.

The club reserves the right to take further action if deemed necessary after conclusion of the Court proceedings.

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