A third cat has been shot in the same area of Coventry – and the RSPCA is calling on owners to be vigilant.
It is appealing for any information after a spate of gun attacks on people’s pets in Earlsdon.
The animal welfare charity was contacted by the upset owners of four-year-old cat Bensi, after he suffered an injury to his leg.
An x-ray showed he had been shot with an air rifle pellet.
It is thought Bensi was shot in the evening of Monday June 26, or the early hours the next day, near his home in Earlsdon Avenue South. He is now recovering.
The latest incident comes just five weeks after a cat was shot near her home in Mayfield Road, Earlsdon.
Another cat, 10-year-old Smudge, had his leg amputated after being shot in Stanway Road in April.
RSPCA inspector Louise Marston said: “I have no doubt in my mind that the same person is committing these horrible acts. Thankfully, none of the cats have lost their lives, but what they have been left with are painful and nasty injuries.
“I am extremely concerned that there is someone deliberately targeting cats in the area, again and again. The police are also aware.
“These are deliberate and brutal acts of cruelty.
“We are urging cat-owners in the area to be cautious and to keep an eye on their pet for any signs of injuries. We are also urge anyone who has any information about who is shooting the cats to contact us in complete confidence on 0300 123 8018.
“I am concerned that more cats will be targeted so the sooner we find out who is doing this, the better.”
Inspector Marston added that the RSPCA is supporting Cat’s Protection’s call for tighter controls on air weapons.
