physical and mental cruelty to any person/animal displays a very unsettled mind, and is not normal behavior. sad he couldn't get help, but it could've lead from cats to kids/old people or other more defenseless challenges.
i'm with linc.... all things on this earth have just as much right to be here as anyone else. my gf and i have 2 boxers, 2 pugs, and 2 bengal cats... all under a moderately sized home.
i do eat meat and wear leather...so it's a bit of a conundrum... but to me, animals raised for a purpose (food, etc) is definitely different than just abusing an animal for the fun of it.
JT - if you want cats around, get 'em fixed for God's sake.