SADLY, there are plenty of sick and twisted individuals out there.

It is a terrible indictment on society, especially when it comes to inflicting pain on defenceless animals.

Cats are by nature affectionate and loving pets so why on earth would anyone want to injure or even kill one?

Well, clearly some people do and a beloved pet cat named Alan died after being stabbed once in North Gardens, Brighton.

He was just two years old and his owner is understandably devastated.

In November last year, the so-called “Brighton cat killer” stabbed or slashed 14 cats near Ditchling Rise.

Many cat owners have taken what precautions they can such as keeping their pets in overnight, which is certainly a sensible course of action.

But it should not be necessary.

Cats are creatures of habit and they love to roam when the mood takes them, which is often at night. As someone quite rightly once observed: “Cats own you, not the other way round”.

Most cats do not run away if called, which makes them an easy target for someone intent on either injuring or killing one.

There has to be the strongest possible deterrent and the present penalties are simply not severe enough.

One cannot possibly imagine what goes through the minds of people who injure animals, whether they be horses, dogs, cats or any other creature. A spell behind bars would be a good start but failing that community service of a considerable number of hours and a hefty fine would serve as a reminder this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.