A DAD who threw a six-week-old kitten across a room because he was annoyed it had fleas has avoided prison.

Adam Routledge, of Stenhills Crescent in Runcorn, lost his temper after being bitten by the animal's fleas, Warrington Magistrates' Court has heard.

On Wednesday, prosecutor Angela Blackmore said the 36-year-old caused unnecessary suffering to a protected animal by banging the kitten on a wall, then throwing it across the room on August 29.

She told the court how, at 9pm, officers were asked to attend Routledge's address, with reports saying there were children screaming about a cat being 'killed'.

Routledge was under the influence of alcohol at the time.

The cat was taken to a vet and given medication, but has since made a full recovery.

Ms Blackmore added that Routledge was also to be sentenced for drink driving and driving while disqualified on October 16.

He gave a reading of 62 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath.

Routledge said he had been drinking the previous night and was unsure if his disqualification had expired.

Ian Waites, defending, said alcohol was the link between his client's two offences.

He said there was no bad driving reported while Routledge was in charge of the vehicle and he only travelled a short distance.

Turning to the animal cruelty matter, Mr Waites stressed that police were not there at the time of the incident and it is not clear what really happened.

He added that as Routeldge had gone to throw the cat, he accidentally hit it on a wall as he drew his hand back, and it was not premeditated.

He said it has had a 'massive effect' upon his client and his family, and is 'embarrassing', 'shameful' and 'unpleasant' for him.

Passing sentence, Andrew Brothers, chair of the magistrates' bench said: "This is distressing, whatever way you put it to anyone."

He sentenced Routledge to a total of 14 weeks, suspended for 12 months.

He must also complete 20 rehabilitation activity days, is disqualified from keeping animals for five years and disqualified from driving for 36 months.

Mr Brothers added: "It was a deliberate act which has caused harm to a helpless animal in front of your children.

"Take this as a final chance, because if you come before any other court you will go prison."