http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/beds/bucks/herts/7753226.

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Cat owner given pet ban for life

The RSPCA said the flat was covered with cat urine and faeces

A woman has been banned for life from keeping animals after the RSPCA removed 22 cats from her Hertfordshire home. Stevenage Magistrates Court found Sylvia Bailey, 67, guilty of failing to meet the needs of 22 cats and causing unnecessary suffering to 17 cats . Bailey, of Sefton Road, Stevenage, who denied the charges, said the cats had a clean environment and she could not afford veterinary care. Bailey was also ordered to pay 500 towards costs. 'Unsuitable home' The RSPCA was called to Bailey's home in December 2007 following concerns about the numbers of cats being kept there and dirty living conditions. She was told by officers that some of the cats had skin and dental diseases which required veterinary treatment. When the advice had not been followed eight weeks later, the cats were removed. The examining vet found that 13 cats were suffering from untreated dental disease, while others were identified as suffering from ear mite infestations, in-growing claws and skin problems. RSPCA inspector Mel Fisher said: " These cats were kept in an entirely unsuitable environment and were denied veterinary treatment . "All the cats are now healthy and thankfully will eventually go to new, caring homes." Bailey said she would be appealing the conviction.