When Ned Taramoeroa's pet moggy was being menaced by a feral cat he allegedly bashed the stray to death. Now the 55-year-old is facing a charge of animal cruelty.
Duty solicitor William Spring told the North Shore District Court a veterinary report suggested the cat was killed by a single blow.
However, police prosecutor Shan Shan Ou said Taramoeroa, of Northcote, had admitted hitting it several times.
Taramoeroa told the Herald on Sunday he was only protecting his beloved pet.
"Everyone has the right to defend their property and their animals ... I will defend the allegations strongly."
