Scottish SPCA appeal after Cat had to be put down after being shot with air rifle at close range in

The SPCA issued the following information.

We are appealing for information after a cat was shot in the chest and leg in Ayrshire.

We were alerted after the cat, named Hazel, managed to get home after being shot at close range with an air rifle in the Bankfield Park area of Ayr, South Ayrshire on 29 January.

Hazel must have been in extreme pain and somehow found her way home. After the vet x-rayed her she realised that the feline had been shot which resulted in a chest wound and three breaks to her leg.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

Shooting an animal in this way is a serious offence and anyone found guilty of doing so can face stiff penalties including a prison sentence and a substantial fine of up to £20,000.