Family distraught after pet cat shot with air rifle

A distraught Sutton family are appealing for witnesses after their pet cat was shot in the leg with an air rifle and viciously kicked.

The Moore family, of Hathaway Road in Four Oaks were shocked when they discovered their pet cat, Slinky's horrific injuries.

"He went out as usual in the morning but when he came back he hid under the settee," said Keith Moore.

"At first we thought he had been run over, but we had him x-rayed and they found a bullet in his leg.

"We also think he had been kicked because his leg was broken and he has had to have a metal pin put into it.

"We have had him for six years and we are shocked and hurt that someone should want to shoot Slinky."

Keith's father, Alan added: "I was horrified, the X-rays were really quite chilling.

"If it is a younger person who has done this than maybe as they get older they will develop some sense of responsibility, but if it is an adult, it is frightening to think this type of person is around.

"We would like anyone who knows anything about it to please come forward."

PC Deano Walker of Sutton police has been investigating the incident which happened on the morning of Wednesday, November 12.

"This was a vicious attack which is classed as a firearms offence," he said.

"I believe the person who did this is an adult, not a child, and it is likely to be someone local as cats don't generally stray that far away."

Anyone with any information is urged to contact PC Walker at Sutton Police on 0845 1135000.