HORSHAM police are investigating after a domestic cat was shot in the city’s west.
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Horsham Sergeant Mick Salter said a cat owner reported the incident to police on Monday after taking their pet to the vet with a leg injury.
“The owner discovered the cat had a sore back leg, and it was very tender to touch,” he said.
“They took it to the vet, and the vet found a slug gun pellet from an air rifle lodged in the cat’s leg.”
Sergeant Salter said the incident occurred on Sunday night or the early hours of Monday.
“We don’t really know which as the cat is not locked up at night,” he said.
“The cat has potentially wandered up the street, and it’s hard to know how far the cat has gone.”
Sergeant Salter said if caught, the perpetrator could be charged with discharging a firearm in a populous place, and aggravated cruelty.
“It is an extremely dangerous and reckless action,” he said.
“We urge anyone who knows anything to call the station on 5382 9200 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”
Horsham PAWS cat co-ordinator Penny Stemp said the group was disgusted.
“In a community that has embraced our rehousing program, it’s sickening to think there are still those in our area who will treat cats in this way,” she said.
“If you don’t like cats – ignore them.
“There is no excuse to hurt an innocent animal. Not only is it incredibly awful for the animal, it’s been traumatising and no doubt expensive for the cat’s owner.
“If anyone has information about this or any acts of animal cruelty, it’s vital that you report it to stop it happening again.”