Animal Cruelty

Why should animal cruelty be a crime?

Could any of you give me a rational reason as to why it should be a crime? Leave your feelings and morals at the door, this isn't Oprah's book club.

>>1
the same reason why mistreating humans is bad i guess.
give me any rational reason why murder should be a crime.
>>4
Animals can't defend themselves.
thats pretty wrong dude.

when you mistreat nature you will get it back.