Cat shot in Thames Valley

A cat's recovering after being shot with an air gun at close range in a Thames Valley village.

The RSCPA's started an investigation after a cat was shot at close range range in Long Hanborough in Oxfordshire.

Marley, who's only six months old and black and tabby in colour, is currently on cage rest after his leg was broken as a result of the shooting.

He was found on Saturday 19 March, lying in his owner’s garden next to the family’s Jack Russell terrier. He was covered in blood and initially owner Emma Gibson thought he had been hit by a car. She rushed him to the local vet where they discovered he had been shot with an air gun. The vet removed the pellet and Marley’s leg had to be pinned. 

Emma told Heart:

“The vet told us that Marley had been shot at close range and they believe that it must have been deliberate. I cannot believe that someone would do this on purpose it is just terrible. I have been putting up leaflets in the village warning people about what has happened and if anyone has any information we would urge them to contact the RSPCA. Although Marley is recovering, this does seem to have affected his personality, which is so sad. My daughter was the one who found Marley lying in the garden and it really upset her, to find our cat in this way.”

 RSPCA inspector Annabelle Black, who is investigating the shooting said:

“This was a terrible crime against a poor animal and we will do all we can to bring the offender to justice. We would urge anyone who has any information about this incident to contact the RSPCA cruelty line on 0300 1234 999."