The RSPCA is appealing for information after a cat called Timmy was found with a shot wound on his shoulder in Markington.
RSPCA officers found the seven-year-old ginger tomcat in the village, which is between Ripon and Harrogate, after a resident alerted the animal welfare charity.
Timmy was rushed to the vets where an X-ray revealed an entry wound from a pellet had shattered his shoulder.
The cat had shrapnel all over his body, and the RSPCA said it was “lucky” the pieces missed his vital organs.
Timmy is now recovering well and the RSPCA has launched an investigation.
The vet believed the shot was fired by a shotgun at close range meaning “someone really wanted to hurt Timmy”.
RSPCA inspector Natalie Taylor said:
“This poor cat would have been in terrible pain from the gun wound. Poor Timmy was on the brink of death before the vets operated on his shoulder and saved him.
“His owners are understandably distraught, this was a callous and horrible act of cruelty against him.
“It is very distressing to think that people take pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenceless animals. These are deliberate and brutal acts of cruelty.”
Read more:
- Harrogate father and son found guilty of beating dog
- Tory candidate for crime commissioner pledges a tougher stance on dog theft if elected.
Ms Taylor said cats and wildlife were often victims of shootings because they are out in the open.
Airgun attacks are most commonly used but the shrapnel suggested a shotgun had been used in this case.
Anyone caught deliberately injuring an animal can face up to six months in prison. They could also be ordered to pay an unlimited fine, if found guilty under the Animal Welfare Act.
If you have any information you can call the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.
