A COUPLE who allowed their 17 cats to starve were banned from keeping animals for the rest of their lives yesterday.

South Durham magistrates, sitting in Bishop Auckland, ordered the RSPCA to remove Alan and Marie Humphrey's remaining two cats and a dog from their home in Dunelm Walk, Darlington.

The court heard they were feeding the 17 cats on pet food, biscuits and scraps, such as sausage, chips, crisps and cheese, but it was not enough.

Kevin Campbell, prosecuting, said most of the cats weighed half of what they should have.

Most had no body fat, distended stomachs, caused by worms, and were suffering from ear infections and growths.

Mr Campbell said: "This is a failure to realise the needs of any of these animals.

"It shows a complete lack of understanding of how to look after them. They were kept in appalling conditions with no proper dietary habits."

The pair admitted causing unnecessary suffering to three cats between February 1 and 26, and asked for 14 other offences to be taken into consideration.

Rory Todd, in mitigation, said: "It is a tragic case involving the cats and the whole situation has arisen because they have taken on far too much.

"No matter how well intentioned, they could not ensure that all cats got fed. It is regretful that the situation has been allowed to get to this stage.

"They are of good character and this is very traumatic for them."

The cats were taken to a vet in Darlington. One died from heart failure, but the remaining 16 have made full recoveries.

The case has cost the RSCPA £5,000 in vets fees, legal costs and boarding at an animal shelter.

As well as a lifetime ban, the Humphreys were ordered to pay £250 each in costs.

RSPCA Inspector Garry Palmer said: "All these cats that were taken in were simply skeletal. The living conditions were absolutely atrocious - the worst I have seen.

"They have no understanding of hygiene or nutrition and, as a result, these animals have suffered.

"Looking after animals is a massive responsibility and these people have failed.