West Ham defender Kurt Zouma is reportedly set to be prosecuted under the Animal Welfare Act after being filmed kicking his cat.
Both of Zouma's two cats are currently in the care of the RSPCA.
An RSPCA spokesperson said: "Following a full and thorough investigation, we have started the process of bringing a prosecution against Kurt Zouma and Yoan Zouma under the Animal Welfare Act.
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"The two cats continue to be cared for by the RSPCA.
"We will be in a position to release more information once a court date is confirmed."
The footage of the player injuring the cat began circulating on social media last month (7 February).
In the upsetting footage, the footballer can be seen volleying his cat across the kitchen before slapping it.
In a previous statement to Sky News, the 27-year-old said: "I want to apologise for my actions.
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"There are no excuses for my behaviour, which I sincerely regret.
"I also want to say how deeply sorry I am to anyone who was upset by the video.
"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."
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Zouma's club has also released a statement, in which it says the matter was being 'dealt with internally'.
A spokesperson for the club said: "West Ham United unreservedly condemns the actions of our player, Kurt Zouma, in the video that has circulated.
"We have spoken to Kurt and will be dealing with the matter internally, but we would like to make it clear that we in no way condone cruelty towards animals."
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The RSPCA also told the outlet: "This is a very upsetting video. It's never acceptable to kick, hit or slap an animal, for punishment or otherwise.
"We are so grateful to people who report suspected animal suffering to us and we would like to reassure people we will always look into and, if necessary, investigate any complaints made to us about animal welfare."
Featured Image Credit: Alamy