A WARRANT for arrest has been issued for two animal owners accused of not caring properly for five cats and a terrapin turtle.

David Ebsworth and Ivy Rusher, of Tower Close, Abingdon, have been charged with two counts each of failing in their duty to ensure the welfare of an animal on July 3 last year.

They are accused of failing to ensure five cats and a terrapin were provided a suitable environment, a suitable diet, and failing to ensure the animals exhibited normal behaviour patterns.

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The duo are also charged with failing to protect them from pain, injury and disease.

Ebsworth, 40, is additionally accused of assaulting Rusher, 38, by beating.

The pair was due to appear at Oxford Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (February 6).

However, the pair failed to show up for their proceedings and a warrant for their arrest has been issued.