I have seen this time and time again with young children, let's face it, the paren'ts are to blame, a young child does not necessarily know any better, and certainly will not learn with the paren'ts having such a negative attitude.

It really appalls me too, I think you did the best you could in the situation, it is a difficult one to be in, you have to be scared for that little kitten's future though don't you?