AN RSPCA investigation has been launched after a cat was seriously injured from being shot with an airgun in Redditch.
Tabby cat Squiggle has been left with possible neurological injuries after being shot in the neck in a callous attack last Wednesday (April 5).
Her owner discovered she had been wounded near their home in Oakham Close, Oakenshaw South and rushed him to the Pets at Home in Trafford Park, Redditch. X-rays later showed a metal pellet was lodged in his neck.
“Every time we go out she always comes home to greet us but this time she didn’t and I just knew something was wrong,” said her owners.
The couple went out to find her and hearing her distressed miaow found her in a back garden a few doors down.
“She was an absolute wreck and couldn’t walk.”
Squiggle had been shot in the neck, the pellet flooring her and leaving her unable to crawl home. The vet at first thought she’d been hit by a car.
RSPCA inspector Adrian Langley said: “It’s very concerning that this has happened and we are appealing to anyone with information to contact us.
“Thankfully the vets have been able to save him – but she has horrific injuries and seems to have been left with neurological issues as he is now twitchy in his movements after being shot.
“It is very distressing to think people take pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenceless animals. This appears to have been a deliberate act of cruelty, but also a breach of the law.”
Her owners added: “The pellet has been removed and she is getting better, whether she will walk as well as she did we don’t know as she can’t get her balance and is falling all over the place.”
The callous attack has also left the couple with a hefty vet bill, but as a member of the family she is worth every penny, they said.
Insp Langley added: “We urge anyone with information on what happened or who knows who targeted poor Squiggle to call the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 123 8018.”
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals visit: www.rspca.org.uk/give or text LOVE to 87023 to give £3 (Text costs £3 + one standard network rate message).
