Cat shot in the head near Welshpool

The RSPCA Cymru is warning pet owners to be vigilant after a cat was shot in the head with an air rifle near Welshpool.

Toffee had been missing for a couple of days near her Cyfronydd home and eventually turned up with a pellet embedded in her head with signs that another had also grazed her head.

An investigation has been launched and the RSPCA is appealing for information whilst warning other owners to keep an eye on their pets.

“This air gun attack is very concerning and our thoughts go out to Toffee and his owner following this incident,” said RSPCA deputy chief inspector Phil Lewis who said the incident happened between May 27-29.

“Luckily the pellet was removed and Toffee is doing okay, with the wounds healing well. She went to the vets for a check-up and luckily no further treatment was needed. But looking at where she was shot, she is lucky to be alive.

“We are appealing to the local community to get in touch if they have any knowledge as to how, or by whom, the cat was shot by contacting the charity's appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

“Cats and wildlife are normally the animals that are more susceptible to these incidents simply because they are out in the open with no one to protect them. Unfortunately, air rifle attacks are not as rare as we would like. The injuries caused by such attacks are horrific and often fatal.

“These weapons cause horrific pain and suffering. Anyone caught deliberately using an air gun to injure an animal can be given up to six months in prison and/or a £20,000 fine if found guilty under the Animal Welfare Act.”