Widower 'heartbroken' after pet cat fatally injured in air gun attack

Monty had to be put to sleep because of his injuries.

The RSPCA is investigating after a pet cat was fatally injured after being shot by someone using an airgun.

It happened in the village of Street in Somerset on Christmas Eve.

Seven year-old Monty had to be put to sleep after a metal pellet pierced his liver.

His owner found Monty lying on his side and struggling to breathe. He was rushed to the vets but sadly had to be put to sleep because of the severity of his injuries.

Nick Perry lost his wife this year, and said he was already facing a difficult Christmas.

Nick's other cat, Milly, has been subdued since Monty’s death.

He's now concerned that other cats may have been targeted in the area.

Monty with his sister, Milly.

The RSPCA is now appealing for anyone with information about what might have happened to Monty between 2pm and 4pm on 24 December to come forward.

Inspector Marie Griffiths said: “It is very distressing to think that people take pleasure in causing such horrific injuries to defenseless animals. This was a deliberate and callous act of cruelty and because of this Monty lost his life, causing heartbreak for his owner so close to Christmas.

“We would like to remind people that the penalties faced if caught deliberately using an air gun to injure an animal can be up to six months in prison and/or a £20,000 fine if found guilty under the Animal Welfare Act.”

Anyone with information about what happened to Monty is urged to contact the RSPCA inspector’s information line in confidence on 0300 123 8018.