Cat found shot dead (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

Cat found shot dead

5:27pm Wednesday 17th October 2012 in News By Ashley Barnard, Reporter (Richmond)

TWO cats in a North Yorkshire village have been subjected to horrific attacks with BB guns - causing the death of one and a fractured leg on another.

One cat was found shot dead in Topcliffe, near Thirsk, on Thursday, October 11, just a month after another was shot at in the same village.

Police said the cat was found with wounds from at least 10 pellets from a BB gun in Topcliffe, where both cat owners live.

Police are not currently linking the two attacks.

The cat shot in September survived, but it had to undergo treatment for a fractured leg.

PC Duncan Pears, of Thirsk Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “These acts of barbarity are truly sickening.

“How anyone can inflict such injuries on innocent animals is beyond understanding.

“Those responsible such be utterly ashamed of themselves.”

He added: “If you can identify those responsible to come forward and contact the police or Crimestoppers straight away.”

Caroline Thompson, deputy manager at Blue Cross animal shelter in Thirsk, said: “We are deeply shocked to hear about this poor cat.

“It is unbelievable that someone could inflict such a vicious attack on a defenceless animal who would have undoubtedly suffered extreme pain and distress."

Anyone wwith information is asked to contact Thirsk police on 101, choose option 2 and ask for Duncan Pears or email duncan.pears@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111 quoting reference number 12120172669.